[ad_1]
AU forces use ‘excessive force’ to fire on protesters in Somalia
BELEDWEYNE, Somalia – Somalia witnessed scenes of violence and chaos as anti-government protests continued for a third week with multiple eyewitness reports of soldiers opening fire on protesters.
Violent clashes have erupted in the streets of Hiran’s regional capital, Beledweyne, between Somali forces and protesters calling for the release of dozens of detainees during massive security operations.
At least three people were injured, including a woman, according to hospital sources.
The protesters blamed Djiboutian and Ethiopian troops serving under AMISOM for opening fire on them with live ammunition, in what opposition figures called an “unfortunate shooting”.
The AU mission was condemned for the use of “excessive and unauthorized force” to shoot civilians during a protest in the city center and apologized for the incident.
“I condemn the acts of suppressing the voice of the people of Hiiraan. I call on AMISOM and Ethiopian forces to refrain from using force to promote the personal interests of President Farmajo, ”said Abdirahman Abdishakur, presidential candidate.
He added: “Opening fire on peaceful protesters is a crime that has become the norm during the Farmajo government,” wishing the innocent civilians who were injured during the shooting of soldiers against protesters.
There are no comments from the Somali government on the shooting of civilians.
Pro-opposition demonstrations took place in several key areas in Mogadishu on December 15, and reports indicate that security forces have clashed with protesters in Yaqshid and Karan districts, resulting in casualties.
Last Friday, December 25, an armed man in civilian clothes working for the spy agency NISA opened fire on protesters in Mogadishu at point-blank range, prompting the protesters to run for safety.
A witness said Garowe Online He saw several people injured in the shooting while three young men were arrested for participating in the anti-government demonstration in the capital.
GAROWE ONLINE
