Somalia’s Ministry of Health and Human Services has reported that one person was killed and 55 others injured during clashes in Mogadishu between June 3 and June 4, figures that differ significantly from casualty estimates released by humanitarian agencies.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the ministry said its figures were based on preliminary information collected and verified through hospitals and health facilities across the capital that treated those affected by the violence.
According to the ministry, health authorities recorded 55 injuries and one confirmed death linked to the security incidents that occurred in various parts of Mogadishu over the two days.
The figures contrast sharply with estimates published by the Protection Cluster and UNHCR Somalia, which said at least 13 people were killed and 189 others injured during the fighting. The humanitarian report also indicated that approximately 12,500 households were displaced by the violence.
The Ministry of Health said it relied on data gathered directly from medical facilities that treated casualties and stressed the importance of using verified information when reporting emergencies and incidents affecting public safety.
“The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to the family and relatives of the deceased and wishes a swift and full recovery to all those injured,” the statement said.
The ministry also praised healthcare workers and emergency response personnel who assisted those affected during the clashes. It noted that hospitals, health facilities and emergency teams played a critical role in providing medical care to injured civilians and other victims of the violence.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and Human Services commends the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by healthcare workers, emergency response teams, and health facilities that provided timely medical assistance and care to those affected,” the statement added.
According to a Protection of Civilians note prepared by the Protection Cluster and UNHCR Somalia, the fighting erupted on the evening of June 3 near Dabka junction. The report said the clashes involved Somali federal government forces and an armed group affiliated with the opposition.
The violence later spread to several densely populated districts, including Hawlwadaag, Abdiaziz, Hodan, Wardhigley and parts of Karaan, raising concerns about the safety of civilians living in the affected areas.
Humanitarian agencies reported significant displacement as residents fled their homes in search of safety. Assessments by the Protection Cluster and UNHCR indicated that thousands of households were forced to leave their neighbourhoods as the fighting intensified.
While the ministry’s casualty figures remain substantially lower than those cited by humanitarian organisations, officials said the process of collecting and verifying information is ongoing and that further updates may be issued as more details emerge.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that information shared with the public is accurate and based on verified evidence gathered through official channels. It also urged institutions, media organisations and other stakeholders to exercise caution when reporting casualty figures and emergency-related information.
According to the statement, responsible reporting is essential during periods of insecurity to ensure information reflects the reality on the ground and is supported by verified facts.
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