Reports say militants emptied their bases in the town and fled towards Moqokori village, some 40 kilometres south of Mahas town. Ahlu Sunna fighters are said to be approaching the town after regrouping themselves.

Al-Shabaab militants returned to the town four days ago after Ahlu Sunna group deserted the town without defending it.

ASWJ has been vowing to oust the militant rule in the entire region, but Mahas town has seen subsequent change of hands for last few weeks.