Beletweyne — The fighters of Shabelle Valley administration and Al shbaaab on Saturday night battled in a district in Hiran region of central Somalia, officials said.

Fighters loyal Al shabaab movement launched hit and run attacks on military bases manned by Shabelle Valley fighters in Halgan district.

During the confrontation, the two opposing fighters have used both heavy and light weapons.

Local residents have expressed a deep concern about the battle, saying that it could have an impact on them.

At least three people have been confirmed dead but the number of injured is not verified so far.

In an interview with Shabelle Radio, Mohammed Nur, the minister of information of Shabelle Valley said they had upper hand during fighting with Al shabaab.

Al shabaab has not released any comments about the combat in central Somalia.