Food Riots Strike Somali Capital

(05 May 08 - RV) Somali troops today killed at least two people in the capital, Mogadishu, when they opened fire to halt riots over rising food costs and counterfeit money.

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of the capital after traders refused to accept local notes which have become virtually worthless, demanding US dollars instead.

Bishop Giorgio Bertin is apostolic administrator for Mogadishu, he says this and the increasing insecurity have seen food prices double and the risk of famine return: