(SD) – Al-Shabaab militants launched a major attack at Bahdo district in Galmudug region in Somalia this morning, with high number of casualties reported.

Local militias have reportedly put up a strong resistance against Al-Shabaab militants who were planning to take over the area.

Fighting in Bahdo area of Galgadud region has reportedly resulted in casualties and injuries to the warring sides and residents.

Al-Shabaab said in a released statement that it had attacked a Galmudug military base in the area after morning prayers.

Al-Shabaab claimed the attack, saying it was carried out in prevention for a military attack against them.

Al-Shabaab suffered heavy casualties and were later forced to retreat, as they lost about 20 fighters who displayed in a public square.

Residents of Bahdo confirmed that three civilians were killed in the fighting, and scores of wounded residents were taken for treatment to Adado district , about 90km away.

Al-Shabaab has carried out several attacks in the past in Bahdo, an area under the control of Adado town, and there are forces loyal to Ahlu Sunna clerics.