Al-Shabaab kills at least 20 people, burn down 7 vehicles in Hiiraan region

GOOBJOOG NEWS|BELETWENE: Reports from the HirShabelle state of Somalia says Al-Shabaab militants have killed at least 20 civilians who were traveling from Beletweyne to Mahas towns in the Hiiraan region.

The victims were drivers and passengers transporting food supplies from Beletweyne to Mahas. A total of 7 trucks carrying food and vehicles used by the passengers were also set ablaze by the militants.

The latest assault has been viewed as retaliation against local and government forces who have been waging war against the group in the Hiiraan region.

The attack comes barely a day after government security forces destroyed landmines that were planted by Al-Shabaab on the road connecting Beletweyne and Mataban districts.The explosives were believed to be targeting travelers plying the busy road connecting the two towns.

Major security milestones have been achieved in the Hiran region in central Somalia after security forces launched a spirited fight against the group in the last several weeks that has largely rid the region of the terrorist group.