Somali, AU forces battle Al-Shabab near Kismayo; 20 dead

MOGADISHU (KON) - Ras Kamboni militiamen backed by Kenyan forces of AMISOM contingent continue for the 3rd day fighting against al-Qaeda-linked group near Somalia's southern key port town of Kismayo, KON reports.

News Keydmedia Online
3 August 2014

The allied forces have clashed with al-Shabab fighters at Abdalla-Birole and Bulo Hajji areas as they try to advance towards the key port town of Kismayo, sources from rival sides have said.

Heavy fighting broke out on Friday at Abdalla Birole, about 20Km west of Kismayo, the biggest bastion of al-Shabab in southern Somalia, witnesses said at least 20 people, most of them from both warring sides were killed in the ongoing battle.

Military officials confirmed to KON that Somali and Kenyan troops launched an attack on the barracks of al-Shabab fighters in the area.

Witnesses in Kismaio have confirmed the clashes to media and said the sound of artillery fire that was exchanged during the fighting could be heard.

KON English News Desk