A round-up of today's other world news in brief ...
Clashes in Somalia leave 45 dead
MOGADISHU – Somali government forces attacked rebel strongholds in Mogadishu yesterday, triggering battles across the capital that killed at least 45 people, the highest single-day toll for months.
Neighbouring states and western security forces fear Somalia could become a haven for militants linked to al-Qaeda. “At least 45 people, including 28 civilians, died in today’s fighting,” Ali Yasin Gedi, vice-chairman of the Elman Peace and Human Rights Organisation, said. – (Reuters)
Suu Kyi pleads not guilty
YANGON – Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi pleaded not guilty yesterday after a prison court charged her over allowing an uninvited American intruder inside her home.
The UN Security Council issued a statement expressing “concern” about the political impact of the developments, and stressing the “need for the Government of Myanmar to create the necessary conditions for a genuine dialogue” with Suu Kyi. The court’s decision to proceed with the trial had been widely expected, analysts said. – (Reuters)
Riot police disperse Muslims
ATHENS – Greek riot police fired tear gas to disperse hundreds of Muslims who pelted them with sticks and stones outside parliament yesterday during protests over what they said was destruction of a Koran by a Greek policeman.
On Thursday, the Muslim Union of Greece reported that during police checks at a Syrian-owned coffee shop, an officer took a customer’s Koran, tore it up and stamped on it. Police have launched an investigation. – (Reuters)
H1N1 readiness needed – WHO
GENEVA – Countries should be ready for more serious H1N1 flu infections and more deaths, World Health Organisation chief Margaret Chan has said.
“In cases where the H1N1 virus is widespread and circulating within the general community, countries must expect to see more cases of severe and fatal infections,” she said. The WHO says the latest strain has so far killed 86 people. – (Reuters)