Al-Shabab fighter blew up a bridge spanning the River Shabelle to impose a siege on Qoryooley town, officials said Saturday.
In past recent days, Al-Shabab increased its attacks against government forces in Qiryooley and Janaale towns of Lower Shabelle region.
Abdifatah Hajji Abdulle, an official of Lower Shabelle administration who spoke to the media said the residents remain cut off as the bridge of the town was destroyed.
“The fighters from Al-Shabab blew up the bridge connecting the two sides of town. The move hindered the movement of the people and vehicles as the river filled to the brim,” said Abdulle.
He noted that the business of the town halted as the customers and the traders live two sides of the town.
“The explosion destroyed part of the bridge. The town could not be reached and unless the bridge is repaired immediately, the town may face a humanitarian crisis,” he warned.
On Thursday several combatants were killed and other wounded after fierce fighting erupted between Somali military and Al-Shabab.
The blast is reminiscent of 2015 Al-Shabab attack on the bridge following deadly gun battle between Somali forces and Al-Shabab.
Al-Shabab wants to depose Somali government and establish their own administration.
The group launches attacks against Somali military and African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
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