The spokesman reiterated that they will do all they can to avoid battling with al-Shabaab in the streets of the town in order to minimize the civilian casualties.

Akunda stated that the joint forces of TFG and AMISOM are now three kilometers away from the town.

He further added that small remnants from al-Shabaab fighters are still in the town but will ultimately leave their positions as the joint forces advance towards the area.

He vowed that once Afgoye operation concludes, the joint forces will explore other al-Shabaab strongholds and continue their offensive against the militant group.

Al-Shabaab fighters have on Wednesday night evacuated from Elasha Biyaha band Afgoye.