Somali Security Forces carried out coordinated operation in the villages under the administration of Laba-Garas district in Middle Shabelle region.
The operation targeted Al-Shabab fighters who were regrouping in Sumadaale village.
According to reports, the Somali troops killed several Al-Shabab fighters during the operation and destroyed Al-Shabab hideouts.
The Somali troops also destroyed a car bomb that Al-Shabab intended to harm the civilians.
The Ground Forces Commander of SNA, Sahal Abdilahi Omar said that Al-Shabab fighters were defeated in their attempts to harm local residents.
Residents in Hawo Abdi and Lafole neighborhoods just 15 km from Mogadishu, reported sightings of heavily armed militants and exchanged gunfire with Somali troops.
The militants presence near the capital raised concerns about their intent to disrupt reinforcements to Awdheegle via Mogadishu- Afgoye corridor.
