Somalia says 10 Al-Shabaab terrorists killed in airstrikes

The Somali government confirmed Wednesday that 10 Al-Shabaab terrorists were killed in airstirkes conducted by Somali and partner forces on Sunday evening.

The ministry of information, culture and tourism said the airstrikes were conducted against a formation of Al-Shabaab terrorists operating north of Kismayo in southern Somalia.

"The terrorists attacked a Somali forces outpost and were repelled," the ministry said in a statement released in Mogadishu.

The statement comes after the U.S. military confirmed Monday it carried out an airstrike against Al-Shabab in Somalia as Washington quietly steps up efforts against the deadliest Islamic extremist group in Africa.

Pentagon spokeswoman Major Audricia Harris, a spokeswoman said they are currently assessing the results of the operation, and will provide additional information as appropriate.

Somali officials said Washington has carried out several drone strikes in recent years against the Al-Qaida-linked Al-Shabaab.

The ministry said Somali National Security Forces will continue to carry out attacks against the insurgents to keep innocent Somalis safe and disrupt Al-Shabaab's ability to operate in Somalia.

"The Federal Government of Somalia remains committed to defeating terrorism and ensuring the country continues on a path to stability and prosperity," it said.

The airstrike follows one in June that the U.S. said killed eight Islamic extremists at a rebel command and logistics camp in the country's south.

Source: xinhua