3 civilians die as fighting in Somalia’s capital continues into 3rd week, official says

3 Somalis killed in fighting in Mogadishu

MOGADISHU, Somalia — An emergency official says three civilians were killed in Somalia’s capital as fighting between militants and government forces entered its third week.

Ambulance service director Ali Muse said Tuesday 23 people were also wounded as 500 shells pounded northern and southern parts of the capital.

The continuous fighting started Aug. 23 after militant group al-Shabab threatened a “massive” war against government forces, who are backed by African Union peacekeepers.

The U.N. says some 230 people were killed, 400 wounded and at least 23,000 displaced since fighting began.

Militants are trying to overthrow Somalia’s weak, U.N.-backed government and install a harsh interpretation of Islamic law.

Somalia has not had an effective government for 19 years.