Wednesday, March 03, 2010
MOGADISHU, Somalia (UPI) -- At least 12 people died and 40 others were injured in fighting that included mortar-shell fire in parts of Mogadishu, Somali officials said Wednesday.
Heavy fighting and mortar shelling between government troops, backed by the African Union forces, and Islamic militants continued from Tuesday into Wednesday, Shabelle Media Network reported.
Most of the fighting was contained in Hodan, Waberi Daynile, Wardigley and Hawlwadag districts in the Banadir region, where sources told Shabelle radio at least 10 people died. Residents in Hodan were reported fleeing their homes.
Sheik Ali Mohamed Hussein, a leader of Harakat al-Shabab Mujahedin in the Banadir region, claimed a militant victory against government troops.
Source: UPI