AU condemns deadly attack on Burundian peacekeepers in Somalia

The African Union on Tuesday condemned a recent deadly attack on a contingent from Burundi of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) that led to a number of casualties.

Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, condemned the deadly attack which happened on Saturday in the Hirshabelle region of Somalia.

The attack on Burundian peacekeepers claimed by the militant group al-Shabab has reportedly killed and injured several soldiers who were travelling on a convoy.

“The Chairperson wishes to extend his sincerest condolences to the bereaved families and the government of the Republic of Burundi and wishes a quick recovery to the injured AMISOM peacekeepers,” said the AU Commissioner’s statement.

Mahamat affirmed the AU’s commitment to working with the government of Somalia to further consolidate peace and security in the country.

“The Chairperson further calls on the international community to provide appropriate support to Somalia and AMISOM to consolidate security gains in the country,” said the statement.

Despite having been driven out of Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, the al-Shabab group still stages guerrilla-style assaults and bomb attacks to drive out AU mission’s troops from Somalia and impose its harsh version of Islamic law across the Horn of Africa nation.

Source:Xinhua