Somali forced backed by allied AMISOM troops have reported taking control of several villages in Hiiraan area held by al Shabaab militants. The commander of Somali National Army (SNA) in Hiran region, Farah Ali Wasuge who confirmed the seizure of the villages said the allied forces engaged fighting with Al-Shabab fighters in villages between Beledweyne and Mahas towns.
The villages currently under the control of SNA and allied forces include Elow, Maqul, Yabarayele, Sheikh Hassan, Afar-irdood Dirim’adle and Garbo.
Somali forces have stepped up operations against Al-Shabab in Hiran, Lower and Middle Shabelle regions since February when Somali President declared new offensives against the group.
