| Description |
AMISOM and TFG forces launched a large-scale offensive against the remaining AS positions in Heliwa and Dayniile districts in the early hours of 20/01. The offensive had in fact started the night before with an intense artillery preparation targeting AS bases in these two districts. AMISOM/TFG forces were reported to have taken control of the remaining urban areas of Heliwa District that were still under AS influence (Livestock Market, Maslah area, up to Darmooley village (5km NE of ex-Control Balcad, on the main road to Balcad/Jowhar). AMISOM/TFG forces also managed to quickly take control of the Mogadishu University building and Baraakat cemetery to the north of Yaaqshiid District (3,5km N of Industrial Road), an area known to host an important AS camp and training facility. The situation in the center of Dayniile District remained however relatively confused. No activity had been reported in the area throughout most of the day of 20/01 but later in the evening AMISOM/TFG forces seemed to have launched an attack from their bases in Tiida and along Industrial Road towards the northern section of the district (airport, hospital). AMISOM forces were reported to have passed AS positions around these two locations and reached the general area of Ali Madhi's farm, around 8,5km NW of the Dayniile Hospital and 5,5km SE of the Shabelle River. As of Sunday 22/01 afternoon AMISOM forces had still not fully dislodged AS militias from the center of the Dayniile District. AS militias were reported to have offered little resistance in Heliwa District and around the Mogadishu University. Casualties could not be confirmed. |
