Al Shabab seize Marka town as AU troops withdraw

MOGADISHU — Fighters from the Al-Qaeda linked Al Shbaab group seized the southern Somali town of Marka after the African Union forces who controlled the town for more than three years withdrew, residents said Friday.

The AU force’ withdrawal comes few hours after Somali troops abandoned their bases in the town in what officials pointed out as result of a protest against lack salary by the government.

Nur Haji, a resident in the coastal town, 100km south of Mogadishu told HOL that Al Shabab fighters hoisted their black flag on the town’s administrative headquarters and spoke to residents as fighters
took positions around the town.

No comment could be reached from African Union officials on the development which serves a significant setback to the allied forces and Somali government’s efforts aimed at extending rule and order across the country.

Troops have seized the town, one the former major Al Shabab strongholds in 2012. HOL will keep you posted for any further updates as they come.