Dozens of suspected al Shabaab militants and sympathizers arrested in an overnight operation in Mogadishu conducted by the Somali National Army. Residents said that the troops raided homes and shops arresting the suspects in what is being viewed as an attempt to curb the numerous attacks being mounted in Mogadishu, the country’s capital against military and civilian targets.
Additionally, reports indicated that during the sweep, the security forces encountered resistance from men armed with pistols at Siigaale area and engaged with them a heavy exchange of gunfight.
Local authorities believe the armed groups use residential areas as bases to prep for attacks and mingle with residents as they carry out the attacks.
The suspects who are being held in custody will be questioned with security officials hoping to get more information from them regarding the al Shabaab operations and network in Mogadishu.
