BARDERA, Somalia -- Hundreds of Ethiopian soldiers in battle tanks have advanced towards strategic Bardera town in southwestern Somalia by Thursday, Garowe Online reports. Ethiopian troops crossed the border to intensify anti-militant push and liberate areas remaining under the control of Al Shabaab fighters.
The military maneuver comes in reaction at a series of seizures made by militants since the start of the holy month of Ramadan. Somalia government and Jubaland officials previously pointed to fresh military offensives against Al Shabaab.
Sierra Leonean peacekeepers headed home from their positions in Jubaland in the aftermath of Ebola in late 2014. African Union forces in Bay, Bakool and Gedo regions have similar moves. |