Somalis demonstrate against record-high inflation worsened by the devaluation of the local currency in the face of rising food prices, in the country's capital of Mogadishu, 05 May 2008

Witnesses in Somalia say security forces fired shots at crowds of demonstrators protesting high food prices in the capital of Mogadishu.

At least one person was killed and several others were injured.

Thousands of Somalis rioted and hurled stones Monday at food traders in the capital to protest the rising cost of food.

The demonstrators were angry with traders for refusing to accept old currency notes that have been blamed for skyrocketing inflation.

Protesters said they have also been hit hard by a sharp increase in global food prices.

Demonstrators shouted at food traders, threw stones at cars and buses, and threatened to burn down businesses.

The Associated Press reports that hundreds of shops and restaurants in southern Mogadishu closed their doors for fear of looting.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, and Reuters.