Two civilians have been killed and five others injured in heavy fighting between rebel forces and Somali government forces backed by African Union troops that rocked parts of restive Somali capital Mogadishu.
 
The clashes started 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.
 
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.
 
The bullet-ridden seaside capital has been experiencing clashes instigated by anti-government forces, which are bent on toppling the UN-backed Somali government.

GAROWE ONLINE