Avert other terror attacks, say victims

Victims of the 2002 bomb blast at an Israeli-owned hotel in Kikambala, Kilifi on Monday supported the killing of al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden.

But the survivors said that even after killing Bin Laden, there is need to be on the lookout for retaliatory attacks by affiliate groups.

In November 28, 2002 a bomb detonated at the Paradise Hotel killing 15 people and leaving more than 80 people injured.

Ms Mercy Mwagambo, one of the survivors praised the US Government for the operation, which led to the killing of the terrorist leader she described as the cause of her problems.

Ms Mwagambo, who was then a receptionist at the hotel, still has scars on her legs and hands after injuries sustained in the blast.

She said Bin Laden’s death is also a relief to other global victims of terrorism.

“Even the Bible has stated clearly that he who commits sins deserves to die and if he has been involved in different attacks Bin Laden deserves to die,” she said.

Ms Mwagambo added that she has had to limp and undergoes psychological trauma whenever she sees her scars.

The 31-year-old, yesterday said she has never received any support from the government but noted that the Israeli Government sent her to a special hospital in their country.

Ms Mufida Mohamed, who lost her husband in the blast, warned the government to beef up security to avert any more attacks in future.

Ms Mohammed, who was left behind with five children including a six-month-old baby, said since the incident, her life has never been the same again.

“I struggle to meet my children’s needs since my husband died when I was a housewife. I depend on well wishers to educate them.

“That is why I am asking the government to ensure there are no more terror attacks in our country,” said Ms Mohamed.

She said her husband died at Pandya Hospital, 28 days after the blast.