US sends security alert following armed clashes in Somalia's capital

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The US has issued a security alert to her citizens living in Mogadishu, following deadly clashes on Friday which left hundreds of people injured and slightly over 20 dead or critically injured according to those in the know-how.

Security forces used live bullets to disperse demonstrators who were allegedly unarmed, leading to criticism from different quarters. Protesters were calling for elections in the country which have been delayed even after the term of the current government elapsed.

But the government claims some protestors were armed, adding that they provoked security forces leading to the deadly shootout. And this has now triggered the security alert by the US, which now cautions its citizens living in the troubled country.

"In the early morning hours of February 19, 2021, sporadic gunfire broke out in Mogadishu. Government and opposition politicians disputed responsibility, but according to unconfirmed reports as many as 20 people may have been killed or injured," the US noted.

"Stray gunfire and possibly one rocket-propelled grenade impacted the Aden Adde International Airport [AAIA] compound. AAIA has diverted incoming flights, and scheduled outbound flights are currently canceled. U.S. Embassy Mogadishu recommends that all U.S. citizens avoid downtown Mogadishu."

Several actors among them the United Nations and IGAD have condemned the violence besides calling for dialogue between the stakeholders. They insist that the polls should be held immediately for the sake of transparency and accountability.

"Avoid the area. Monitor local media for updates. Avoid crowds. Keep a low profile. Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance," the US told her citizens in the country.

GAROWE ONLINE