Mines and IEDs killed close to 700 Somalis in 2021-UN

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Close to 700 Somalis died as a result of improvised explosive devices and explosive remnants of war in 2021, the UN has said warning the mines continue to pose a threat in the country.

The UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) said in marking Mines Awareness Day on Monday said 669 Somalis were killed by IED and explosives remnants of war in 2021 up from 501 in 2020.

“The contamination by and from explosive remnants of war and landmines resulting from years of conflict in Somalia continues to have detrimental effects on safety and human security, and hampers development efforts,” said the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan.

“The continued use of improvised explosive devices poses a serious threat to the country and its population,” he added. “The United Nations in Somalia remains committed to working with the Somali authorities and partners on mine action, which enables peacebuilding, humanitarian, and socio-economic development efforts while protecting civilians.”

The militant group has in recent years deployed IEDs as its most effective weapon against security and civilian targets. The group, which used to rely on technology from foreign fighters now makes them locally according to various UN reports.