29 Aug 2009
At least 21 people have been killed after heavy fighting breaks out between al-Shabaab and Somali government troops.

The three-hour fighting started when al-Shabaab fighters launched an ambush against Somali troops near Burundi AU Base.

Both sides used heavy weapons during the fighting. Sounds of heavy weapons could still be heard in many parts of Mogadishu last midnight.

Insurgents vowed to continue their attacks against Somali government for the month of Ramadan.

Meanwhile, Somali pirates were reported to have raided a number of boats, taking captive several foreigners.

Somali Business Community said they seek the urgent release of the boats because they are carrying goods for the holy month of Ramadan, which started a week ago.

Somali pirates have renewed their attacks on ships off Somalia's coastal water and vowed to attack US warships helicopters.


presstv