At least 11 people have been killed and 18 others injured in heavy fighting between Somali government forces and fighters loyal to insurgent Hizbul Islam group, Radio Garowe reports on Monday.

The clashes, which started on late Sunday and continued overnight, concentrated in the capital’s Hodan, Howlwadag and parts of Maka Al Mukarama road, where the warring sides exchanged heavy weapons including mortar shells and machine guns.

Mohammed Osman Arus, Hizbul Islam’s spokesman said that his forces carried out attacks on government and AU troops who were advancing on rebel territories, adding that they have killed several government soldiers.

“We carried out attacks on government and AMISOM troops especially Ugandans who advanced to Digfer Hospital. We forced them out of the hospital,” he told reporters in Mogadishu.    

The clashes erupt after AU forces made military movement in Hodan districts especially Digfer Hospital where they briefly occupied and then vacated later in the day.

Residential areas have also witnessed heavy bombardment and gun fire that forced many to flee their homes and look for safer grounds.

The clashes are worst to hit the bullet-ridden seaside capita in recent days with the powerful insurgency maintaining the grip of its positions across the war-torn country, which has been marred by years of anarchy.

GAROWE ONLINE