UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia gravely concerned about the latest civilian casualties and displacement in Mogadishu

[NAIROBI, 15 February 2010] The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mark Bowden, today expressed grave concern at the high number of civilian casualties and massive displacement taking place as a result of recent fighting in Mogadishu. Over the past two weeks alone, more than 80 civilians have been killed and more than 8,000 people displaced.

"I am alarmed by the large number of casualties emanating from recent fighting in Mogadishu over the past two weeks. Civilians continue to bear the brunt of conflict and insecurity in the country," stated Mark Bowden.

The recent fighting has mainly taken place in the northern part of Mogadishu, particularly in the districts of: Heliwa, Yaaqshiid and Wardhiigleey. This is also where the largest number of people have been displaced from. Some of the worst fighting occurred on 10 February when more than 24 people were killed and 158 people were admitted to hospitals with war-related injuries. According to UN estimates, approximately 8,300 people have been displaced since 1 February, of whom 5,700 have moved out of the city, mainly to the Afgooye Corridor. Around 2,400 people have moved to safer areas within Mogadishu.

The Humanitarian Coordinator believes that the high number of civilian casualties and continuing displacement in Mogadishu suggests the indiscriminate and disproportionate use of force against civilians by all parties to the conflict. The Humanitarian Coordinator appeals to all parties to the conflict to protect civilians and to minimise the risks to the civilians by respecting and implementing their obligations under International Humanitarian Law.

For more information contact: Muna Mohamed, Information Officer, +254-733643737 or mohamed26@un.org

For more information on Somalia go to: www.ochaonline.un.org/somalia