AMISOM and SNA forces Launch Security Operations in Elbur

Ethiopian troops under African Union and Somali forces have launched a large-scale sweep in Elbur town  in Hiraan region following Al-Shabaab attack on the areas days ago, locals said.

The forces commenced door-to-door searches at dawn on Monday  in the area.

A local resident who asked no to be named said forces began operations, searches aimed at Smoke out Al-Shabaab members who blend in with the people.

“Al-Shabaab attacked several the areas days ago and the forces come to this area to hunt the perpetrators and Al-Shabaab sympathizers in the area,” he said.

He noted that the move was aimed at eradicating “anti-peace” groups as well as restoring peace and security around the town.

“This is a normal security operation of the security forces aimed at ensuring peace and security of our community and eliminate a few elements who want to cause trouble,” he said.

Another local resident said the forces were on Monday morning deployed in the areas.

“They are checking everybody. They have arrested two youths, whom they suspected of being members of Al-Shabaab,” said a resident who sought anonymity.