MOGADISHU (SD) – Various reports have emerged about a heavy airstrike carried out by warplanes last night on the outskirts of Bal ‘ad district in the Middle Shabelle region, targeting a location where Al-Shabaab was present.

The targeted airstrike specifically took place around the Hawadley area, where Al-Shabab attacked government forces yesterday, resulting in various casualties.

Reports add that the airstrike targeted Al-Shabaab bases in the area, causing significant losses to the militants.

Information also indicates that vehicles stationed by the group were destroyed after the airstrikes hit the location with several shells.

There has been no official statement from the Somali federal government regarding the airstrike and the exact casualties.

Hawadley, previously vacated by ATMIS (African Union Transition Mission in Somalia) forces, has recently come under increased pressure from Al-Shabab, which has been attacking government military bases.

Nevertheless, the situation remains very tense, with opposing movements detected in the Bal ‘ad district area of the Middle Shabelle region.