Bal’ad district falls into Islamic Courts Hands

Mogadishu 04 June. 06 ( Sh.M.Network) In another blow to Somalia recently announced Anti Terror Alliance, Bal’ad district a key position controlled By Alliance member Muse Sudi Yalahow fell into the hands of the Islamic Courts this afternoon after heavy fighting.

At least 12 people are reportedly dead although no details have been made by both sides about the casualties.

Reliable sources from Bal’ad District indicate forces loyal to Islamic Courts Union subjugated the town after heavy fire exchange between the Anti Terror Alliance militiamen and those from the Islamic Courts out side of the district.

At least 70 armed militiamen from the Anti Terror alliance have given themselves into the Islamic courts inside Bal’ad sources confirmed.

Meanwhile, the Islamic Courts released 20 other prisoners from Local jail in Bal’ad after totally taking control of the town which was strong hold for Muse Sudi Yalahow.

The fighting started on 2:00pm local time after militiamen from the Alliance side attacked Islamic Courts held positions and the fighting spread into the town of Bal’ad after they have been badly defeated.

Moalin Hashi, a powerful traditional elder who recently become Muse Sudi rival is among fighting spearheads he told Shabelle through the phone that his forces allied by the Islamic Courts militiamen took control of Bal’ad district in Somalia middle Shabelle Region.

Moalim Hashi has been a former ally of Muse Sudi Yalahow but recently became rival after clashing with him.

Mustafa Haji