Local Ma’awisley forces last night launched an attack against Al-Shabab fighters who were regrouping in Tawakal settlement which is under Adan Yabaal district in Middle Shabelle province.
The local forces moved from Ceel-hareeri settlement which is under Moqokori district in Hiiraan province and targeted the militant group of Al-Shabab.
Reports say that local Ma’awsiley forces met strong resistance from Al-Shabab fighters as clashes ensued between the two sides which lasted for several hours.
Fierce fighting occurred in the settlement between the local Ma’awisley forces and Al-Shabab militants but it is not clear who is in control of the settlement.
After clashes occurred, the settlement faced a situation of uncertainty.
Spokesman of the Ministry of Defense, Abuukar Ma’alin Mohamud told that the local forces launched an attack on an area that the militant group were regrouping.
He said: “The local forces carried out a planned attack against Al-Shabab militants in Tawakal settlement which is under Adan Yabaal district. They were mobilizing in the settlement. The local forces inflicted heavy defeat on the militant group of Al-Shabab.”
There are casualties including deaths and injuries from both sides but the exact number of casualties were not confirmed.
The attack which was launched at night and Al-Shabab fighters did not expect the local forces launch the assault while they were stationed in a settlement in the East of Middle Shabelle province.
The Somali troops conducted an operation in Sumadaale settlement which is under Adale district.
