At least 21 killed as Somalia battles jihadis in remote area

Somalia's military repulsed an attack by jihi fighters in a remote region of country early Saturday, killing at least 18 of al-Shabab militants, according to a top army official.

At least three civilians described as “tritional elders” were killed in fighting near Masagaway town, Gen. Mohamed Ahmed Taredisho said by phone.

Masagaway is located in central region of Galgud and home to a military base. Resident Yusuf Sheikh told Associated Press that militants overran base, confiscated weapons and burned battle wagons during attack.

“It was early in morning, and (al-Shabab) completely took over whole town, including military base, forcing government forces out of town,” he said.

Sheikh said several people were killed in attack and ors were missing.

Al-Shabab, which has ties with al-Qaida, opposes Somali federal government in Mogishu, capital. group intensified attacks on military bases in recent months after it lost control of territories in rural areas to government forces.

Al-Shabab members have fought for years to create an Islamic state in Horn of Africa nation. African Union peacekeepers and occasional U.S. airstrikes on al-Shabab targets have tried to help keep militants at bay,.

Somalia also is facing its worst drought in deces. During a visit re earlier this month, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed for “massive international support” for country.