African Union: 15 Al-Shabab fighters killed in Somalia attack

[Deeq A.]

MOGADISHU (Caasimada Online)—African Union troops killed at least 15 Al-Shabab fighters as they repulsed an attack by the armed group on their base in Somalia.

The AU mission said heavily armed Al-Shabab fighters attacked on army bases belonging to the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

The attacks happened in Barire town, some 60km west of Somali capital Mogadishu, killing at least 15 Al-Shabaab fighters, mission said.

“We have repulsed in two separate attacks by Al Shabaab in Bariire town. AMISOM troops have killed 15 AlShabaab fighters in the attacks”, the mission said.

The African Union peacekeeping force said it would continue working with the federal and state governments to ensure Al-Shabaab is defeated and lasting peace and security restored in Somalia.

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

The Al-Qaeda linked Shabaab was pushed out of the Somali capital in 2011 — and subsequently other towns and cities — by soldiers from the African Union Mission in Somalia.

Somali has been without a central authority since the overthrow of the late ruler Mohamed Siyad Barre in 1991 when the country plunged into chaos and lawlessness.

Caasimada Online

Mogadishu News Desk

Caasimada@live.com