Somalia: Southwest forces recapture Goofgaduud after Al Shabaab retreat

BAIDOA, Somalia- Southwest State troops backed by AU soldiers have secured control of Goofgaduud district, about 30 km north of Baidoa city without a battle after Al shabaab fighters have pulled out of the town, Garowe Online reports.

Reports said Al Shabaab militants vacated Goofgaduud upon the advance of the allied forces into the town without encountering a resistance from the retreating insurgents.

Sunday's battle in Goofgaduud has left at least 12 people dead, including four Southwest soldiers, according the regional administration information minister Hassan Abdi. “Eight Al shabaab fighters died in the fighting, added Abdi.

The minister confirmed the takeover of Goofgaduud, saying situation has returned to normal as the combined troops set up defenses outside the town to prevent Al Shabaab counter-offensive.

Meanwhile, Southwest state police commissioner Mohamed Isack Carre-ase said they are committed to continue the fight to drive out Al Shabaab from the country.

Islamist militant group Al Shabab said it killed seven Southwest state soldiers during Sunday's attack on Goofgaduud, and denied they have been pushed out of the town by the regional forces and AMISOM.

GAROWEONLINE