IEDs in Mogadishu (File Photo)
Security and intelligence forces from Somalia’s Transitional Federal Government (TFG) today arrested four al-Shabaab militants transporting explosive devices, according to government officials.
Hassan Ali Mohamed, a TFG security official, confirmed the arrests to Somalia Report.
“Yes, the brave security forces seized explosive devices and four al-Shabaab fighters, including the driver, in the Black Sea section as their car was coming from Elasha Biyaha. They wanted to slaughter the innocent people of Mogadishu. The suspects were taken to jail and will face prosecution as soon as possible," said Mr. Hassan.
Since fleeing Mogadishu in August, al-Shabaab has repeatedly vowed to attack the TFG and AMISOM forces in the capital.
Fighting Breaks Out in Mogadishu
Meanwhile two people were killed and three others were injured after fighting broke out in Mogadishu's Karan and Heliwa districts between TFG forces, supported by African Union peacekeeping forces (known as AMISOM), and al-Shabaab fighters.
Abdirahman Lafe Yare, a resident of Heliwa district, confirmed the fighting to Somalia Report.
“Yes, the fighting broke out in Wahar Adde village of Heliwa after al-Shabaab attacked TFG and AMISOM bases. Two people died and three others were injured. All of the victims were soldiers or militants except for one civilian who was injured the fighting. He was taken to hospital for treatment,” the resident explained.
A TFG official who spoke to Somalia Report on the condition of anonymity claimed the government forces repelled the attack.
"Al-Shabaab attacked our bases in Heliwa district, but we defeated them. They escaped the scene after we killed two of their fighters and injured others," said the official.
Local residents also confirmed the fighting.
"Fighting erupted near Digfer hospital and there was heavy shelling," said Ali, a local resident.
Al-Shabaab has not yet commented on the fight.