Fresh clashes between pro-government forces and local fighters in Somalia have left at least 27 dead and 90 others injured. The lawless capital has been the place of bloody streets and violence.
From dusk and until dawn, victims of the deadly clashes between pro-government forces and anti-government fighters al-Shabaab hear the sounds of artillery exchange and see the sights of bloody streets as violence between the two sides have resumed, according to Garowe Online.
Heavy fighting in the Somali capital of Mogadishu has left at least 27 dead and 90 more injured but the death toll is expected to rise because residents are still collecting the bodies from the sidewalks and alleys, reports Press TV.
“I am currently in Eldher town, which was captured by Al-Shabaab. The other forces have vacated the town. And Al-Shabaab have slain two civilians. I have seen 15 dead bodies, most of them fighters. Al-Shabaab is in control of the town,” said one local resident, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
In the south western town of Elbarde in the region of Bakol, al-Shabaab fighters attacked it and have claimed victory and state that they are currently ruling the town. However, government officials have denied such victory.
Reuters reports that the Human Rights Watch (HRW) announced that Western governments have quickly condemned the killings by Somali Islamist fighters but also said they have ignored the human rights abuses conducted by the government forces and African Union soldiers.
“The U.S. government has sent mortars to transitional government forces in Mogadishu even though no party to the fighting has used the weapons in accordance with the laws of war,” said the HRW in a statement.
On Tuesday, United Nations Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie called upon the international community to assist the thousands who are stuck in-between the fighting in Mogadishu, reports Inside Somalia.
“I am deeply troubled by the complete and utter disregard for human life in Somalia. Another tragedy is unfolding in Somalia as street battles rage on in Mogadishu causing incredible suffering, massive displacement and loss of life,” said Jolie.
Due the continuation of the conflict, hundreds of thousands of Somalis have fled their homes, which is adding to the humanitarian crisis in the region. It is expected, once again, that fighting will lead to famine and disease and the deaths of hundreds of thousands of people.
More than 170,000 Somalis have been forced from their homes since the beginning of 2010.
Source: digitaljournal.com
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