AU probes death of civilian in accident in Somalia

The Africa Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) said on Saturday that it has instituted internal investigations into fatal road accident on Thursday involving its police vehicle which resulted in the death of a civilian.

A statement from the pan African body said its preliminary report indicates that the victim, who was walking on the right hand side of the pedestrian lane, suddenly swerved into the road and tried to cross between the convoy.

"The victim was sighted by the driver (AMISOM police) when it was too late to avoid the unfortunate incident from occurring," AU mission said in a statement issued in Mogadishu.

The statement said the accident was reported at Banaadir regional traffic office and due process of law will be followed.

"AMISOM has instituted internal investigations into the matter and is working closely with the Federal Government of Somalia to ensure that the incident is thoroughly and objectively investigated and the matter is conclusively handled," it said.

The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the AU Commission and Head of AMISOM, Ambassador Francisco Madeira, regretted the "unfortunate accident" and extended his heartfelt condolences to the victim's family and loved ones.

The mission has over 22,000 peacekeepers supporting the restoration of peace and stability in Somalia and AMISOM has said it wants to ensure its peacekeeping troops under international humanitarian law.

source: Xinhua