Somalia: AMISOM admits civilian causalities in Southern Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia- In a statement released by African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) it has expressed concerns over reports of civilian deaths by its forces in Qoryoley and Marka, Garowe Online reports.

AMISOM indicated that its troops came under attack by suspected militants affiliated to Al Shabaab group on December 17, and according to an early agreement with local administration, a curfew was placed on vehicle restricting movement during the night in the district, aimed to minimize attacks by Al Shabaab group in the night.  

However, a minibus ferrying passengers approached a roadblock setup by AMISOM in that night, and defied orders to stop and reversed the vehicle, which prompted AMISOM forces to shoot, killing six civilians in the minibus.  

AMSIOM announced it will launch investigation into the incident involving killing of civilians, and noted that the mission operates under the international human rights law and takes civilian casualties, by its troops, seriously.

“All allegations made against its personnel are thoroughly investigated and action taken under the rules and procedures governing the mission’s operation in Somalia,” read the statement.

Federal Government and AMISOM said they will jointly launch investigations into the incidents and said appropriate actions will be taken once completed.

GAROWEONLINE