20 killed in attack by extremist group

Somali state media reported the extremist group al-Shabab killed at least 20 people and burned vehicles transporting food in the drought-stricken Hiran region on Saturday. Residents said the attack was in retaliation for a local mobilization against the al Qaedaaffiliated group.

“The victims were drivers and passengers transporting food supplies from Beletweyne to Mahas and a total of seven trucks carrying food and vehicles used by the passengers were set ablaze,” resident Hassan Abdulle told the Associated Press by phone.

The attack came a day after government forces destroyed landmines that al-Shabab had planted on the busy road connecting Beletweyne and Mataban with the intent to target travelers.

Al-Shabab confirmed the attack and claimed to have killed 20 local militia members. The Somali government condemned the “barbaric” attack and reiterated its support for local mobilization against the extremist group that holds significant parts of central and southern Somalia.