70 Al-Shabaab militants killed in N. Somalia: official

MOGADISHU, March 21 (Xinhua) — At least 70 Al-Shabaab militants have been killed and 30 others captured in heavy fightings by Somalia’s Puntland forces in the past four days, officials said on Monday.

Puntland Minister of Information Mohamud Hassan said their forces the fightings took place in Suuj Valley in Nugal region, northern Somalia, and the government forces have overpowered the insurgents.

“We have killed 70 Al-Shabab fighters. We also arrested 30 of them. This is a military victory against terrorist group,” Hassan said.

He said more than 500 militants, who stormed the region, have now been surrounded by the Puntland forces, and the forces are also pursing those who escaped.

Al-Shabaab militant group did not comment on the victory by Puntland forces.

Al-Shabaab has been facing a major onslaught from the Somali security forces backed by the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) troops.

Kenyan soldiers have killed more than 50 militants in the past week in different shootout incidences in southern Somalia.source: Xinhua