20100207
presstv

The Al-Shabab fighters have imposed an undeclared curfew in the southern Somali town of Merka after a number helicopters flew over their stronghold.

Somali opposition fighters ordered the closure of businesses and civil activities in the Lower Shabelle fishing town of Merka after five low-flying helicopters carried out an apparent reconnaissance operation over the coastal town.

The apparent two-hour scouting flights drove Al-Shabab to deploy anti-aircraft rocket launchers on high buildings tops in order to ward off possible attacks, a Press TV correspondent reported.

Recently, Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed said that his government was ready to mount a fresh offensive against the Al-Shabab group, which has poured into the capital Mogadishu.

He confirmed the Somali troops' readiness to retake strategic towns in southern Somalia, including Baidoa, Kismayu and Merka, currently under the control of Al-Shabab and the rival Hizbul Islam fighters.

A large number of African Union troops have also reportedly approached Merka and Baraawe in the effort to crack down on the fighters.