Bal ‘ad (SD) – Al-Shabaab militants for few hours took control Bal ‘ad district in the Middle Shabelle region, the militants took control of government buildings, and released government prisoners.

Heavy fighting is reported to have taken place in the center of Bal ‘ad town and the fighting has caused unconfirmed casualties including deaths and injuries.

Al-Shabaab fighters have managed to take control of some neighborhoods in the city, but recent reports suggest they have left the city.

Al-Shabaab has repeatedly taken control of Bal ‘ad, a town 30 km from the Somali capital Mogadishu.

Al Shabab’s latest brazen attack and capture of this major city confirms the group’s strength and threat to the government of Somalia.