Kyrgyzstan tightens security over anniversary of Osh tragic events

On May 15, 2010, Osh entered its weeks-long ethnic clashes between local Kyrgyz and Uzbek residents that turned into an armed conflict. As a result, 400 people were killed and over 2,300 were wounded. Around 2,000 houses and administrative buildings were destroyed or put on fire. Several dozens of people still remain missing.

"Security measures were tightened to prevent possible terror acts and riots," Osh city mayor Melis Myrzakmatov said instructing to ensure round-the-clock control of public places, including trade centres, airports and bus terminals.

He also called on authoritative representatives of the Kyrgyz and Uzbek communities to make reports on TV "to strengthen interethnic accord and prevent the spread of panic and provocative rumours."