Somali government and Al-Shabaab group each claimed victory in Thursday’s battle across several areas in the Middle Shabelle region.
The Ministry of Information reported 130 militants were killed after dawn attacks in Cel Cali, Daru Nicma and Al Kawthar.
“Our forces killed 130 militants and foiled their attacks,” the ministry said. “Our heroes are pursuing the rest.”
Al-Shabab claimed to have killed 91 soldiers, wounded 111, and captured several soldiers, seizing seven vehicles.
The group said its militants had briefly captured seven military bases after overpowering the soldiers.
“We continue our blessed operations to ensure Allah’s law is fully implemented,” the group said.
Driven out of Mogadishu in 2011, al-Shabaab continues to carry out deadly attacks.
For over a decade, the group has been battling to impose a hardline interpretation of Sharia law in Somalia.
Al-Shabaab still controls large swaths of southern and central Somalia.
