The Somali Federal Gov’t on Monday confirmed that 70 Al-Shabab militants were killed in the fighting that occurred on Saturday and Sunday in settlements that lie in the border between Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle provinces. A statement from the ministry of information said that the Somali National Army (SNA) and the local defense forces known as Ma’awisley defeated the militant group of Al-Shabab which launched the attacks in the settlements in the border areas.
The statement went on to say that the brave Somali troops have inflicted heavy defeat on Al-shabab’s attempts to expand its controlled areas. They are chasing the militant group in settlements in Middle Shabelle province. The statement added that the Somali Federal Gov’t sent congratulations to the Somali troops and the local defense forces who foiled Al-Shabab’s mission and the bravery and resilience they have shown.
Al-Shabab militant group launched fierce attack on military positions of the Somali National Army (SNA) and the local defense forces that are stationed in the outskirts of El-Hareeri which is under Moqokori district in Hiiraan region. Al-Shabab launched the attacks from the outskirts of Adan Yabaal district in Middle Shabelle province, and encountered strong resistance from the gov’t troops and was forced to retreat.
The Somali troops backed by the local defense forces took the road that goes to Adan Yabaal district after officers of the Somali National Army (SNA) became aware that Al-Shabab will launch attacks against El-Hareeri once again. Reports say that the Somali troops came near Adan Yabaal since the militant group of Al-Shabab took control of Adan Yabaal district in a fierce battle on April 16. Tension is running high in Adan Yabaal and Alkawsar settlement where there is a movement of Al-shabab fighters.
