Al-Shabaab suffers massive losses in Somalia fighting - state media

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Al-Shabaab is reportedly suffered casualties in the latest crackdown instigated by the Somali National Army [SNA] and their partners across the country, with the government now keen to liberate many areas which have been under Al-Shabaab capture.

The militants, who control large swathes of rural central and southern Somalia, have been targeting innocent civilians, military officials, and senior government officials in their cowardly attacks, triggering efforts by the government to eliminate them from their hideouts.

State media reports that over 90 Al-Shabaab militants were killed in the most recent operation by the SNA soldiers near Jicibow village within Buloburde District of Somalia, just moments after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud vowed to face the militants.

Just after the massive losses, the state media added, a number of Al-Shabaab militants started surrounding the government troops, who gained a number of villages during the operation which is said to have lasted several hours.

"90 Alshabab terrorists were killed in an operation conducted by Somali National Army near Jicibow village under Buloburde district, with support of locals," read the statement. "Some terrorists have begun to surrender this evening as SNA encircled the area, blocked roads, and the river crossings."

Meanwhile, Al-Shabaab on their side claimed to have killed five soldiers in this attack. Group also claimed it was in control of the area the fighting took place. There is no independent confirmation of casualty figures reported, but the government provided evidence.

The government soldiers have been working closely with US Africa Command [AFRICOM] and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS] in the latest offensive.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud also insisted that the government will also target the sources of income of the militants to reduce their influence in the country.

GAROWE ONLINE