MOGADISHU, Somalia – Al-Shabaab militants launched a fresh mortar attack on Afgooye district in the Lower Shabelle region on Saturday morning, injuring civilians and causing panic among residents.
Security sources told Arlaadi Media Network that at least five mortar shells were fired, some of which landed inside the town while others struck the 21st October neighborhood.
“So far, five civilians have been confirmed injured, but the extent of the damage remains unclear,” a security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said.
Meanwhile, Somali government forces on Saturday morning launched military operations toward the villages of Sabiid and Caanoole, where Al-Shabaab militants are known to operate.
Sabiid and Caanoole is the outside of the Afgoye, a town of 30 KM SouthWest of Somali capital Mogadishu. The movement comes hours after a clash between the army and the extremist group in the area.
However, concerns over possible landmines planted along the roads leading to the villages could slow down the military advance.
The Lower Shabelle region has witnessed an escalation in clashes between government troops and Al-Shabaab fighters in recent weeks, as Somali forces continue efforts to drive the group out of its strongholds.
