At least 64 people have been killed according to authorities in Uganda after bombs exploded in two bars while fans were watching the World Cup Final game between Spain and Holland.
Injured people are treated in a Ugandan hospital after a bomb exploded during the World Cup final on TV - Image by : Reuters / Benedicte Desrus
An American and a few others of foreign nationality were also killed during the twin attacks.
According to Ugandan authorities, a Somali based terrorist group with links to al Qaeda was alleged to have carried out the attacks.
Ugandan Police chief, Kale Kaihura told reporters that he believed that one of Somalia’s most feared militant groups, al-Shabab, were behind the attacks which also left dozens injured.
“These bombs were definitely targeting World Cup crowds,” said Kaihura.
The U.S. president, Barack Obama, also condemned the act after hearing of an American being killed in the bombing which occurred in Kampala.
According to many local news agencies, 14 people were killed in the Ethiopian bar in the Kabalagala district, an area known for its night life. The bar was completely destroyed due to the blast.
The second bomb exploded at the Kyadondo Rugby Club where the remaining 50 victims were killed.
Police have said that the number of dead may increase after at least 70 people were injured in the twin attacks some in serious condition.
According to a source an al-Shabab commander, Sheik Yusuf Sheik Issa, who neither denied or confirmed the attacks said “Uganda is one of our enemies. Whatever makes them cry, makes us happy. May Allah’s anger be upon those who are against us.”
Uganda have been greatly criticized by Islamic terrorist groups after the African nation agreed to send peacekeepers to operate in Mogadishu, Somalia.
The main anger to Ugandan authorities comes as many Islamic groups believe that Uganda are backing a Western influenced government in Somalia.
Over 5,000 African troops belonging to the African Union operate in Mogadishu to protect an anarchic country which is very close to collapse due to lawless groups.
If al-Shabab were behind the attack, it will be the first time the militant group has carried out an attack outside of Somalia.
