Al-Shabaab militants launched an attack on an Ethiopian Military Base under the African Transition Mission in Somalia in EL Barde district in Bakool region southwest Somalia overnight according to sources.

Local sources reported a fierce and prolonged exchange of gunfire between the attackers and the Ethiopian troops, with the district engulfed in violence. However, neither side has provided information on the number of casualties resulting from the conflict.

The situation remains highly tense as reports suggest that the Al-Shabaab attackers eventually retreated after hours of intense fighting. In response, Ethiopian forces have initiated an operation to track down the insurgents responsible for the assault on their military base.

Al-Shabaab has been increasingly assertive in recent weeks, targeting various military bases, including their recapture of the Daru-Nimca Military Base from the Somali National Army.

On the other hand, the Somali National Army and Jubbaland Security Forces have launched a joint operation to flush out Al-Shabaab from Dhobley town in Lower Jubba region.

The operation focused on the outskirts of Dhobley town, a known gathering point for Al-Shabaab militants, as reported by reliable sources. The joint forces engaged in a fierce clash, unleashing a heavy exchange of fire upon the Al-Shabaab.

The exact toll of casualties remains undisclosed, as both the government and Al-Shabaab have remained silent regarding the aftermath of the operation.

This well-planned joint offensive coincides with heightened efforts by the Federal Government and Jubbaland State forces across the region.