Al-Shabaab reportedly captures area near Kismayo airport

GOOBJOOG NEWS|KISMAYO: The militant group Al-Shabaab claimed Monday morning that it captured a locality near the Kismayo Airport in Somalia’s Lower Juba region ahead of Lower House elections there.

The group said in its affiliate websites that it took control of Yaq-Rar area after Jubaland forces reportedly withdrew from the area.

Jubaland and Somali government officials have not yet commented on the recent security developments.

The incident comes days after Jubaland State Indirect Elections Team (SIET) announced the first 14 Lower House seats to be contested soon.

Al-Shabaab has intensified attacks in various parts of the country, especially where elections are taking place. Attacks have been witnessed in Jowhar and Beletweyne where HirShabelle State elections are due to take place.