MOGADISHU (Halbeeg News) – At least 30 people including elders have been abducted and a well was destroyed by Al-Shabaab fighters in Middle Shabelle region.
Heavily armed Al-Shabaab fighters have reportedly raided Elmuluq village on Thursday evening after dispute sparked between the locals and the fighters.
Locals who spoke to the media said the group’s fighters surrounded the village and arrested dozens of people in the area.
“Al-Shabaab fighters attacked the village from different directions. They ordered people to gather in an open area. Several people mainly men were singled out. Those arrested include elders,” said a resident who asked anonymity.
According to the residents, the group also destroyed the only borehole in the village.
Al-Shabaab reportedly accused the villagers of supporting local fighters who took arms against Al-Shabaab.
The self-organized militias known as “Ma’awisley” have been fighting Al-Shabaab fighters in Middle Shabelle region for months.
In August, fierce fighting broke out between Al-Shabaab and clan militias in Hirshabelle state.
The fighting between Al-Shabaab and the local militias was triggered by alleged Al-Shabaab conscription of teenagers into their ranks.
Al-Shabaab which has been fighting the federal government for the last one decade has lost many towns and villages in South and central Somalia after its fighters were defeated by Somali forces and AMISOM troops.
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