Somali Government Launches Offensive Against Islamist Rebels

Trying to exert control over their capital again, the Somali government has launched an attack against the Islamist 'rebels' who hold significant parts of the city.

Heavy fighting has started this morning between government forces supported by African Union forces (AMISOM) and Islamist rebels Al-Shabaab.

It is reported that number of heavy weapons are being used namely anti-aircraft, multiple rocket launchers, and light armour vehicles.

The fighting started around six am and many of citizens have started to flee when houses started to shake with bombings and heavy noises. Many of residences have already fled the city and in particular to build up of this battle which government wants to take more land from rebels. The government controls only small sections of the capital, namely airport, port, presidential palace "Villa Somalia" (along the Indian Ocean).

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By: Brant