Heavy fighting ongoing in Mataban as troops launch assault on Al-Shabaab

GOOBJOOG NEWS|BELETWEYNE: Reports from Hiran region say that intense fighting between government forces and Al-Shabaab militants is currently taking place on the outskirts of Mataban district.

The fighting erupted following a special operation launched by the Somali National Army on Al-Shabaab in Qabno area of ​​Mataban district in the region.

According to locals, the fighting has resulted in casualties between the two sides, although the exact number of casualties is not yet. 

Government officials from the Hiran regional administration have not yet given a brief on the recent security developments in the area.

The attack was preceded by a landmine attack on a military convoy heading to Mataban locality Monday morning, resulting in deaths of four people and injuries of three people, including two journalists working for the HirShabelle regional TV.