Hiiraan Online
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
MOGADISHU (HOL) – Somali and African Union forces retook two frontline towns in south and central Somalia from militants Wednesday, as parts of a new military push aimed at recovering lost territory and opening a major road linking Somali capital to central regions, officials, residents said.
Military officials told HOL that the forces have taken control of El-Baraf, a long time rebel-held small town, 26km south of Jalalaqsi.
Al-Shabab fighters have reportedly withdrawn the town after brief clashes with the allied forces who entered the town from the southern direction.
The highway between Mogadishu and central Somalia which passes through large forests is a vital trade route that connects south, central and northern Somalia regions.
Meanwhile armed villagers backed by allied forces have also retaken control of four villages in Middle Shabelle region after militants have pulled out before troops encircled the neighboring villages.
Al Shabab hasn’t yet commented on the development, however, it comes as allied forces continue the multi-pronged offensive against the areas still under Al-Shabab group.
The offensive dubbed ‘Indian Ocean’ was halted after Al-Shabab fighters launched multiple deadly attacks including three complex attacks on the African Union military bases in Somalia that saw militants overrun the bases since late last year that killed dozens of soldiers.
Military officials said that the resumption of the offensive which was halted seven months ago gave Al Shabab more freedom to organize guerrilla attacks that saw its fighters recaptured towns and villages across Somalia.