MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – At least 10 people were injured after live ammunition was fired by a joint force of military and police officers at civilians who staged a protest today in the Heliwaa district of Mogadishu.
Residents were protesting against alleged land grabbing reportedly carried out by government officials using armed forces, who were attempting to demolish neighborhoods located in the Heliwaa and Yaaqshiid districts.
Witnesses said protesters threw stones at the armed forces, after which the troops opened fire directly at civilians.
The number of injured is believed to be higher than currently confirmed.
One of the hospitals in Mogadishu that received the wounded told Kaab TV that several of the injured youths had gunshot wounds inflicted at close range and were directly targeted.
Photos obtained by Kaab TV show the extent of the injuries sustained by civilians who were admitted to various hospitals.
The injured are in urgent need of assistance, particularly as the country is observing the holy month of Ramadan, while ongoing drought and economic hardship continue to severely affect vulnerable communities.
