Death toll from Somalia twin blasts rises to 30, 42 others injured

MOGADISHU - At least 30 people were killed and 42 others injured in twin blasts which hit popular restaurants in Baidoa town in the south-central bay region of Somalia, local officials said Monday.

Mayor of Bay region Abdirashid Abdullahi told Xinhua by phone that most of the killed are civilians.

"The death toll has risen to 30 with 42 others injured, the explosions took place at busy restaurants in the city," Abdullahi said.

According to the mayor the first blast was used by car bomb while the second carried out by a suicide bomber, noting the troops carried out operations in the city and arrested the suspects.

"We have arrested some people we believe they conducted the attacks. The troops are still launching operations in Baidoa town," the mayor added.

Residents said troops are carrying out search operations in the city which was last night deserted for few of more attacks. Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack.

"Somali troops started huge operations this morning arresting many people, some of them were nabbed from their homes, and the movement of the trade in the city is very low, because commercial sites are closed." Baidoa resident Siidow Nor told Xinhua.