Somalia’s transitional federal government forces and allied local militia today retook Dhobley district on the Kenyan border after heavy fighting broke out early this morning.
The fighting begun when the government forces and their allied militia of Raskamboni function, led by Sheikh Ahmed Madobe launched planed offense on Shabab’s key positions in Dhobley town.
Local residents told RBC Radio that after four hours of fierce clashes the forces pushed back fighters of al Shabab rebel group and entered inside the town.
“We gained a victory over the enemy of Somali people, and we thank to God that the town is under our control at the moment”, said Sheikh Mohamed Wali, a leader of allied militia in Dhobley.
The government officials claimed they killed at least 7 al Shabab fighters in the today’s battle. There are also civilian casualties in the town.
Health officials also confirmed that nearly 15 wounded soldiers from the government were sent for treatment in Garissa hospital in the northern east region of Kenya.
The town is now calm as the fighting ended in the mid-day. The fighters of al Shabab are reportedly fled in panic.
No any details emerged from al Shabab spokesman about the fighting.
The fighting came as the governments forces were struggling to throw out the extremists in the country from many regions in the south and central Somalia.
Dhobley is a key town on the Kenyan border and the Kenyan government is much worried about the fighting which could influence in its border towns.
