The fighting reportedly broke out after heavily armed militants ambushed Ahlu Sunna convoy in an area between Wara-dumale and Dagah-yale areas of El-bur district, Galgadud region.

Although the exact number of casualties on both sides still remains unknown, Ahlu Sunna’s area district security boss Abdi Hassan Mohamed claimed victory, saying they killed seven militants fighters and seized weapons.

He said one of their militias sustained minor injuries adding that they repulsed the militants who ambushed their convoy.

Al-Shabaab militants have been launching guerrilla attacks on Ahlu Sunna bases since they were driven out of El-bur town few weeks ago.