United States of America Congresswoman has asked federal government of Somalia to continue seeking answers and of possible retribution over detonation of a telecommunication company's mast.
IIhan Omar of Minnesota's 5th District accused Kenya Defense Forces of going beyond limits by destroying infrastructure in the Horn of Africa nation.
Hormuud Telcom on Saturday claimed that KDF had destroyed one of its mast at Gedo region within Jubbaland, arguing that it was the 12th time the troops were detonating a mast.
Further, they said, an attack launched reported by KDF left one of staff members dead and several others are currently nursing serious injuries.
"For the 12th time this year, KDF has detonated our masts in Aws-Karun at Gedo region of Jubbaland. The attack took place on August 22nd. The troops used powerful machines to destroy the equipment.
"In an earlier attack, the KDF troops killed one of our staff and injured others. These unlawful acts by KDF amounts to war crimes and will turnish the effort of international community to stabilise Somalia," the company said in a statement.
The attack was allegedly executed on Thursday during elections in Jubbaland, which saw KDF ally Sheikh Madobe cruising easily to victory. There were claims that KDF had also closed down Kismayo Airport.
But the Congresswoman, who was born on Somalia and had brief spells in Dadaab as a refugee, insists that Kenya should respect investiments in Somalia.
"Somali government and peacekeeping forces, need to protect @Hormuud and the Somali telecom industry as they make enormous contribution to the economy and provide vital services. During my visit to Somalia in 2011, I was surprised by the quick evolution of technology in Somalia," she said.
"Finally, the destruction of vital infrastructure is harmful not only to the Somali/Kenya relationship, but to future investment in Somalia’s economy. I urge the Somali government to continue to seek answers and retribution," she added.
Despite the allegations, KDF is yet to issue any official response. However, the troops have been launching attacks against Al-Shabaab militants across Somalia since 2011.