Three people killed in military and Shabaab clash in Middle Shabelle

At least three people have been killed in a clash between Somali national army and Al-Shabaab fighters in areas between Bal’ad and Jowhar towns in the Middle Shabelle region.

Goobjoog News correspondent in Jowhar said Al-Shabaab fighters ambushed a military vehicle leading to the exchange of fire which lasted for about an hour. The militants fired rocket propelled grenades on the forces, the correspondent says.

Government troops were dispatched from Jowhar and Bal’ad towns to reinforce the soldiers who had been battling the militants. Residents told Goobjoog News the fighting lasted for about an hour.

In June a government convoy was targeted in the same route with a landmine explosion assumed to be an improvised explosive device (IED) which was hidden in the road.

Government officials in Jowhar are yet to commend on the development.