Somali military kill suspected fighters in Marka town

Somali forces killed at least eight Al-Shabaab militants and injured 11 others in Marka town, Southwest of the capital Mogadishu Sunday evening, a military commander has confirmed. 

The commander of the 4th Battalion of the 14 October Brigade, Osman Mohamed Muse told the media the forces repulsed an attempt by Al-Shabaab on the town leading to heavy clashes but his forces managed to push away the militants inflicting casualties.

At least eight al-Shabaab fighters have been killed and 11 others were injured on Sunday following an attack on Marka town.

Speaking to the military-owned radio, Osman Mohamed Muse, the commander of the fourth battalion of 14th October said the attack began with explosives and mortar fire followed by heavy fighting between al-Shabaab and the Somali military.

The commander stated that the military had an intelligence report indicating imminent al-Shabaab attack thus were well prepared.

The coastal town of Marka in Lower Shabelle region lies about some 90 kilometers (56 miles) southwest of the capital Mogadishu.

For months now, Danab forces have managed to kill dozens of militants ahead of a full takeover from foreign troops in Somalia.