Osh disturbances hurt 624, the death toll has grown to 41

BISHKEK. June 11. KAZINFORM Last night's clash between ethnic Uzbek and Kyrgyz residents of Osh hurt 624 people, the Kyrgyz Health Ministry said; Kazinform refers to Itar-Tass.

photo: QAZINFORM

"Hospitals admitted 406 clash victims," ministry spokesperson Svetlana Baitikova told Itar-Tass. "About 50-60% of all patients are in serious condition. The death toll has grown to 41."

Gunfire exchanges continue despite the curfew, which started at 6:00 p.m. local time (4:00 p.m. Moscow time), eyewitnesses said. Not only army servicemen and policemen but also large groups of people armed with metal rods, stones, cold steel and firearms are staying outdoors. Smoke is coming from several districts of the city. Dozens of buildings, including shops, cafes, a bank, a shopping mall, a dormitory and apartment blocks, and dozens of vehicles were set to fire.

Kyrgyz authorities admit the complicated situation but claim to be in full control; Kazinform cites Itar-Tass.