GAROWE, Somalia Oct 3,2014 (Garowe Online)-According to well informed security sources, at least 50 US military personnel took part in the latest offensive that Wednesday dislodged Al Shabaab militants from a key base in Galgala, Garowe Online reports. 

The US special forces in armoured fighting vehicle were also spotted in Galgala area near Golis Mountain ranges during a visit to Puntland army troops on the frontline by Bari Governor Abdisamad Mohamed Galan yesterday. 

GO learned that military personnel helped Puntland forces gain accurate intelligence in advance of the assault, carried out surveillance by providing tactics and joined units within Puntland army in foiling Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs).

The move marks the first ground support since the United States stepped up its involvement in war-torn Somalia in 2006.  US supports counter-terrorism task-force- Puntland Security Force (PSF)-that monitors and deters terror threats. 

Air strike killed Al Shabaab Chief Ahmed Abdi Godane near militants stronghold of Barawe coastal town in early September. 

Despite intense military campaign in south-central regions, fugitive Al Shabaab fighters have been infiltrating into hideouts along Golis Mountain ranges in northeastern Somalia. 

GAROWE ONLINE