Fighting between clan militias and Al-Shabaab continues third day in central Somalia

Clashes between Al-Shabaab fighters and local clan militias have entered its third day after Al-Shabaab ordered nomadic villagers in Dumaaya village in central Somalia to pay a tax, say local residents.

The fighting which erupted on Sunday has so far claimed lives of over 30 people including civilians and fighters from both sides.

Osman Khalil, resident said residents with fighters from Al-Shabaab in Dumaaye village and its surroundings near the port of Harardheere town in central Galmudug region.

“Locals took up arms against Al-Shabaab fighters who want to take their livestock as zakah amid severe drought hit the region,” he said.

Security Minister for Galmudug State in Somalia Osman Isse Nor told reporters that the militants were defeated during the fighting, noting that their attempt to revenge and rob locals failed.

“Our forces killed 26 terrorists and more others were injured, Galmudug State forces are part of the battle and supports the locals to fight Al-Shabaab in east of Mudug region,” Isse said.

He called on the Somali government and the African Union peacekeeping troops to help locals and Galmudug State forces in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

Reports say that Al-Shabaab fighters burned down homes at the village and went away with over fifty animals.