Somalia
Ethiopian troops reach Somali town after 7 soldiers killed in battle
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Apr 1, 2008 - 3:19:20 PM

BELETWEIN, Somalia Apr 1 (Garowe Online) - Members of the Ethiopian armed forces deployed in Somalia reached the town of Bulo Burte, in the central Hiran region, after seven government soldiers were killed in battles with insurgents yesterday.

The 8-truck Ethiopian armored convoy left the provincial capital of Beletwein early Tuesday morning, according to the Garowe Online correspondent who is on a working visit to Bulo Burte.

Hiran Governor Yusuf Daboged and several armed trucks joined the Ethiopian army convoy before reaching the town of Bulo Burte, which was seized by rebels yesterday after fierce battles with government troops.

At least 10 people were killed in yesterday's battle, including the seven government soldiers, two civilians and one of the rebels, according to reliable sources in town.

A force of 200 fighters loyal to the Islamic Courts maintained control of Bulo Burte town until midnight, where they pillaged through government offices and freed prisoners.

Residents were anxious about renewed hostilities in the town because government troops led by Gov. Daboged remained in the vicinity of the town.

Some families were reported to have packed their bags and left for the outskirts of town, fearing new battles between the government and insurgents.

The Garowe Online reporter was able to take pictures of the insurgents. Some fighters clutching AK-47 assault rifles looked as young as 14 years of age, with the smile of victory etched across their faces.

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Source: Garowe Online