Somalia
Somalia: Federal Govt, AMISOM troops clash with Al Shabaab
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Mar 11, 2014 - 5:02:24 AM

MARKA, Somalia March 10, 2013 (Garowe Online)-At least four persons including civilians and fighters were reportedly killed in heavy clashes between Somali government forces backed by African Union peacekeepers and Al Shabaab militants in Lower Shabelle region of southern Somalia, Garowe Online reports.

Lower Shabelle region Governor Abdikadir Mohamed Nur Siidi told reporters on Monday that fierce gun battle triggered after the allied forces moved into areas close to Barawe coastal town and Qoryoley.

"Somali government forces and AMISOM moved into Al Shabaab bases in Lower Shabelle region in the early hours of Monday morning. They have been positioned in the outskirts of Barawe and Qoryoley but during the military operation, our forces faced heavy resistance from Al Shabaab," said Siidi.

Speaking on the casualty figures on their side, he confirmed that two Somali and two AMISOM soldiers sustained injuries.

Independent sources tell that one civilian was killed. Al Shabaab fighters have suffered major setback as military offensives continue to intensify in southern Somalia in an effort to liberate the areas under the control of the militant group.

GAROWE ONLINE