Mogadishu, Dec 23 (IANS): The UN top envoy in Somalia has condemned the twin bombings in the Somali capital Mogadishu.

According to officials, 15 people were killed on Saturday when suicide car bombs exploded near Somali National Theatre in the vicinity of the presidential palace.

Nicholas Haysom, UN secretary-general's special representative for Somalia, called on Somali authorities to spare no efforts in fighting the agents of violent extremism who bear responsibility for this heinous crime, Xinhua reported.

"The attacks in Mogadishu today signify another cowardly assault against the people of Somalia and their inherent right to live in peace and dignity," Haysom said on Saturday in a statement issued in Mogadishu.

Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the explosions. Among the fatalities was a prominent Somali journalist with the London-based Universal Television.

"We extend our condolences to the families and friends of the deceased, and we wish the wounded a full recovery from their injuries," said the UN envoy.