Photo: United Nations

A Somali girl crosses a street on her way to school while AMISOM soldiers stand guard (file photo).

Mogadishu — AMISOM is investigating an incident in which civilians may have been caught up in crossfire as its forces repelled an attack by the Al Shabaab terror group.

The attack took place near the town of Leggo, 120 km west of Mogadishu. Initial reports indicate that some civilians, including children, were killed and others are hospitalized with gunshot wounds.

"AMISOM is mindful of its responsibility to minimize civilian casualties during its operations and we have clear rules of engagement to that effect.

We are therefore currently establishing the facts and the circumstances around this tragic incident so as to ascertain whether, and to what extent, these rules may have been breached," said Acting Force Commander, Major General Salvatore Harushimana.

In the meantime, AMISOM condoles with the families of the bereaved and hopes for the quick recovery of the wounded whilst reiterating our commitment to support the Federal Government of Somalia in ensuring the safety and sanctity of life in the country.