Kenya Military Attacks Somali Rebel Stronghold

Posted September 28th, 2012 at 4:35 am (UTC-5)
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Kenya's military says its forces have entered the Somali port city of Kismayo in an offensive aimed at recapturing it from al-Qaida linked militants.

Kenyan military spokesman Colonel Cyrus Oguna says Friday's early morning attack included both maritime and air forces in coordination with African Union and Somali government troops.

Oguna said the city fell “with minimum resistance,” however witnesses and al-Shabab forces say fighting in and around the city is ongoing.

Earlier this week, Kenya said its military launched air raids on key rebel facilities in Kismayo.

Al-Shabab militants have used the town's seaport to bring in weapons and other supplies to support their battle against the government.

The extremist group is seeking to impose a hardline form of Sharia law (Islamist law) throughout Somalia. It once controlled most of southern and central Somalia, but has lost most of its territory to pro-government forces since they launched a major offensive last year.