AMISOM: We killed 25 camels and injured four others in crossfire at Lower Shabelle

Camels lay dead on the streets after it was felled by Amisom forces in cross-fire. Photo/COURTESY

MOGADISHU—African Union forces in Somalia has admitted that it killed 25 camels in Marangway & Jameeko after it was ambushed by the militant group Al Shabab.

Shabelle Media in Somalia reported that the attack took place at Wareer-Maleh  near Barawe town, 200 km south of the Somali capital Mogadishu.

Addressing the media on Sunday, Amisom spokesman, Lt Colonel Joe Kibet said AMISOM forces encountered an IED followed by ambush. He added that the IED was set off with a phone, injuring two soldiers.

“In the course of the confrontation, we caused the death of 25 camels and injuries to 4 more animals,” Lt Col Kibet said.

“The animals were grazing in the area of the confrontation,” the spokesman added, confirming that two peacekeepers were wounded.

In a Tweet on Sunday, @amisomsomalia explained that the forces were in discussion with the locals whose animals were killed in the crossfire for possible compensation.

“25 camels were killed  and 4 injured. Our forces met with the local administration and livestock owners yesterday to discuss the matter,” the Tweet said.

Meanwhile, Somali Special Forces supported by Amisom  troops yesterday conducted an operation on Friday in the village of Wanlaweyne, near Baledogle.

The operation follows previous similar operations in Gaay Diigaale, Beer Xaani, Caba, and Tortoorow. The operation resulted in the arrest of a suspected senior AlShabaab commander, AMISOM said.

Five countries, namely Uganda, Burundi, Kenya, Djibouti and Ethiopia have contributed to the 22,000 strong force that operate in Somalia in order to stabilize the war-ravaged Horn of African country