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Five die in fighting Al-Shabab and Jubbaland forces backed by AMISOM troops

Storyline:National News

At least five people were killed and several others injured in fighting between Jubbaland soldiers backed by AMISOM troops and Al-Shabab fighters in several areas outside Kismayo town.

The fighting flared up after Jubbalnd soldiers ambushed Bulla-Gaduud, Yoontoy, Abdala Biroole localities which were under the control of Al-Shabaab fighters.

Confirming the incident, a local resident of Yontoy said the fighting broke out at militants-controlled village, killing three Al Shabab fighters and SNA soldier.

“SNA soldiers and their allied AMISOM troops attacked Al shabab base at Yoontoy village,” said he said.

Three days ago Jubbaland administration vowed to launch a significant military offensive against Al-Shabab militants.

Addressing journalists that day in the port town of Kismayo, President Ahmed Madobe said that ‘’Operation River Jubba’’ will be launched soon and aimed at liberating the towns and areas controlled by the militants in the provinces of Lower and Upper Jubba.

‘’We are ready to drive out al-Shabab militants from this region. The operation and troops are ready, it could be any day,’’ he said.

Since 2012, Al-Shabab lost key strongholds to the AU troops and Somali national army, but the group has since carried out deadly attacks in the country and neighbouring Kenya.