ADADO, Somalia- Local soldiers aided by national intelligence officers clashed with fleeing Al Shabaab militants near Hobyo, Interim Galmudug Administration (IGA) Vice President Mohamed HashiArabay said on Thursday.

Speaking on BBC Somali Service, Arabay noted that Galmudug troops confronted militants fleeing Puntland onslaught on Galmudug’s northern border with Garacad coastal town.

10 Al Shabaab fighters were captured, with many more being killed in gun-battle, Mr. Arabay added.

Galmudug operations are aimed at preventing Al Shabaab remnants from returning to original hideouts by boats.

Meanwhile in Galkayo’sBarahley neighborhood, Galmudug security forces apprehended 30 Al Shabaab members believed to have fought in areas perching closer to Garacad.

The clashes have renewed after Puntland forces ended cleanup counteroffensives in coastal villages along the Indian Ocean. Over 100 militants were taken prisoner while 167 others have been confirmed dead in the fierce operations in Suuj valley and Dhinowda.

GAROWEONLINE