The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS) mourn the loss of life of four SRCS volunteers killed amongst many others following the huge explosion that detonated in a very busy street of Mogadishu yesterday. This figure may rise as there are a number of volunteers still missing.

As we continue to assess the situation on the ground, the toll remains unclear in the chaos following the blast. SRCS’ First Action Teams immediately responded providing first aid and ensuring the transfer of the wounded to hospitals nearby. ICRC has a surgical team in Mogadishu to support the overstretched medical services. Likewise, both SRCS and ICRC are supporting Medina, Keysaney and other hospitals with urgent medical supplies to cater for the hundreds of wounded.

This grave incident is a stark reminder of the humanitarian consequences of armed conflict in Somalia. "Thousands of civilians lose their life in Somalia every year as a direct consequence of the ongoing conflict. SRCS and the ICRC remind all parties that civilians are protected by international and customary laws and must be respected at all times", said Jordi Raich, ICRC's Head of Delegation.