Somalia: Jubaland troops begin anti al-Shabaab offensive
Jubaland government in southern Somalia has launched a major assault on fewer bastions remaining under the control of al-Shabaab militants in an operation dubbed “Juba River”, Garowe Online reports.
Jubaland troops backed by African Union peacekeepers have wrested control of Abdalla Birole, some 60km south of the southern port city of Kismayo.
The liberated vicinity had since been a springboard and a key Launchpad for al-Shabaab militants, Jubaland officials were quoted as saying.
Al-Shabaab fighters fled in advance of the onslaught according to residents. Moreover, the victorious forces in armored vehicles received a warm welcome in the outskirts of Abdalla Birole.
The allied troops handed out food items to villagers devastated by months-long blockade by the Somali militant group.