At least six Al-Shabaab militants were killed and three others captured at Raydabow village about 25km from Bur-hakabo town in Bay region of southwest Somalia during a security operation on Sunday.

Security commander of Southwest State Administration in Somalia, Mohamed Isak Ibrahim told reporters the operation was successful, adding that the officers gathered crucial intelligence that may lead to arrest of the insurgents in future.

"The security forces conducted successful operation between Baidoa and Bur-hakabo towns, we reached Raydabow village and found the nine militants preparing explosive devices. They tried to resist arrest and the fight ensued," Ibrahim said.

"We over powered them, six of them died on the spot from explosion after hurling the devices on them while three others surrendered to us. We are questioning them," he added.

The security commander added that there were no casualties on their side while thanking residents for their contribution on this successful security operation against Al-Qaida linked group of Al-Shabaab.

Al-Shabaab militants have not commented on the latest victory by the Somali security forces in the region so far.

Such operation comes less than 24 hrs when deadly attacks occurred at a restaurant in Bur-hakabo town where one person died and six others injured.

Source: XINHUA