Following a violent explosion in the western Somali town of Beledweyne on June 18, the hospital of the town, supported by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), received a total of 40 patients.

Almost all the patients had serious burns but were able to receive the necessary treatment. There were 25 injured who required surgical intervention. There were four deaths and the team is fearful for the survival of four other patients who are in a very critical condition.

The explosion resulted in a fire that caused many injuries through smoke inhalation and burns. A total of 29 bodies were brought to the hospital so that the MSF medical team could provide a death certificate to the relatives.

MSF is very sad to report the tragic loss of a member of its staff in the explosion. Our thoughts go out to his family at this time.