The move is aimed at stepping up security in Beledweyne town and its environs, according to area deputy governor Ahmed Abdalle Osman.

The AU forces move to their new bases including the current regional administration headquarters, former district administration block and several other bases in town where the Ethiopians were initially based.

The Ethiopian troops left moved to a base outside the town last September to pave way for the deployment of African Union forces replacing its military presence in the region.

Osman also revealed that government troops in the area will soon be moved to a training camp to boost their military skills.

He however urged locals living in the former military camps including Lama-galay camp to immediately vacate to allow them use these camps for military purposes.