Deaths feared as allied government forces retake Guriel

GOOBJOOG NEWS|GURIEL: A joint offensive by Galmudug and federal forces has dislodged the moderate Islamist group Ahlu Sunna Waljamaa from the central part of Guriel town as fighting continues amid fears of deaths and displacements.

Sources in the central Somalia town said the allied forces had managed to take control of strategic parts of the town but Ahlu Sunna still mounted a pushback.

The joint forces launched the offensive Saturday morning following a week-long build-up and mobilisation of forces. Mortar shells and heavy weaponry were reportedly traded by the two sides destroying property in the town.

More to follow.