At least ten Somali government soldiers have been killed in an attack on two villages in Middle Shabelle by Alshabaab militants on Sunday, Radio Dalsan reports.
The clashes occurred near Elka and Qalimow villages in Ballad district of Hirshabelle State where the militant group launched a surprise attack on government forces manning the areas.
According to the villagers the areas were still under Alshabaab control by Sunday night.
Alshabaab affiliated websites claimed 10 SNA soldiers were killed.
An official of the Balaad district told Radio Dalsan in a phone interview confirmed that Alshabaab militants raided the two villages.
“God has given us victory and three of their fighters were killed” Abukar Adan Odey claimed.
Alshabaab has continued to execute ambushes and raids in parts of the Middle Shabelle.
