Somalia: Government forces retake key town from Al Shabaab

MUURI, Somalia- Somali National Army (SNA) on Monday has regained full control of Muuri district located in Lower Shabelle region after Al Shabaab group briefly controlled it on Sunday, Garowe Online reports.

A resident, who spoke on a condition of anonymity, said the Somali forces have pushed back Al Shabaab fighters who seized the town on Sunday afternoon after an assault on the military base belonging to SNA.

Muuri which is situated about 13 kilometers west of Afgoye district in Lower Shabelle region was recaptured without resistance but the militants set fire on the military base before retreating from the area.

Al Shabaab’s military operation spokesman, Abdulaziz Abu Musab, told affiliated media that the group has killed senior army officials and seized vehicles and weapons during yesterday attacks.

The group hoisted their flag at Muuri's main administrative headquarter and implored residents after the seizing the town, according to an eyewitness.

Al Qaeda linked Al Shabaab group has lost many stronghold areas in the past years to Somali government forces backed by African Union peacekeeping troops (AMISOM) but continued to carry out sporadic attacks in a bid to topple the western-backed Somali government.

GAROWEONLINE