Friday January 13, 2023
Beledweyne (HOL) - Government forces allied with local militias engaged in a fierce gun battle with Al Shabaab fighters in Hiiraan near the villages of Tabantaab and Mohamed Hassan, 25km south of Beledweyne.
According to reports, the skirmish began after local security forces spotted Al-Shabaab fighters gathering across the Shabelle river.
The intense gunfight lasted over two hours, with both sides receiving reinforcements. Residents from nearby villages reported hearing heavy artillery fire.
Although casualties are expected, it's unclear how many have died on both sides.
Residents say there is little prospect of the battle easing after the fighting has expanded to the regions between Beerhana and Bardhere.