Deadly clash kills 16 people in Somalia

[Deeq A.]

MOGADISHU (Caasimada Online) — Heavy fighting broke out between Somali army forces from Jubaland and Al Shabaab near Baladhawo town in south of Somalia’s Gedo region.

Somalia’s Jubaland military says the army forces launched an attack on Al-Shabaab fighters in Gedweyne area near the town.

Jamal Hassan Farei, a senior commander of Jubaland forces confirmed at least 16 people — 11 Al Shabaab and 5 soldiers had been killed in the fighting.

“We have lost five soldiers and seven others sustained injuries during the fighting. We killed 11 Al-Shabab fighters and seized weapons,” Farei said.

He says the operation was carried out following tip-off as the group’s fighters were on their way to carry out an attack on Jubaland army camp in the region.

There was no immediate comment from Al-Shabaab over the military claims.

The group frequently launches deadly attacks in the towns bordering Kenya, targeting Jubaland forces and Kenyan troops.

Caasimada Online
Mogadishu News Desk
Caasimada@live.com