At least eight Al-Shabaab militants were killed by Somalia National Army with aide from AMISOM forces on Friday within the troubled Gedo region where two Cuban doctors are believed to be held hostage.
Kenyan government resent Mandera elders to Bulahawo, a village within Gedo to renegotiate ransom for the release of the two doctors, citing initial Sh150 ransom as 'too high'.
But even with the negotiations, reports from local media indicate that government soldiers clashed with Al-Shabaab militants at Gedo, leading to the death of eight Al-Shabaab militants and a number of soldiers.
"At least 8 militants and number of govt soldiers were killed following heavy clashes at Maykarebey and Iimay, 20km north of Garbaharey, Gedo region, Thurs-source. Troops raided the locations earlier today, AS launched counterattack mid-morning sparking fierce fighting," VOA journalist Haruf Maruf said.
Early this year, KDF soldiers left several parts of Jubaland especially within Gedo region, where their camp was ran over by Al-Shabaab militants at El-Adde town.
Security sources said the doctors are held within Gedo near El-Adde. They are under the care of Al-Shabaab and are said to be giving medication to locals awaiting payment of ransom.
“The doctors are well taken care of. They are under watch as they offer medical care to locals,” said a security official who talked to one of the elders.
Despite the latest development, KDF Rangers Strike Regiment that comprises of Rangers Strike Force and Special Forces, are within Gedo monitoring the situation of the doctors as elders negotiate for their release.