Dozens killed in Somalia fighting

MOGADISHU, Somalia, Dec. 7 (UPI) -- Violence in Somalia during the weekend left at least 28 people dead, a hospital spokesman and witness accounts said.

Clashes between Islamist militia groups in Gureil killed 12 and wounded more than 20, hospital spokesman Mohammed Hagi Ali said. Mortar shelling by Ethiopian forces in Mogadishu killed at least 16 residents Friday, CNN reported Sunday.

"The fighting is so heavy, and a barrage of mortar bombs is hitting many parts in our town, killing people and causing heavy damages of buildings," Mogadishu resident Abas Haji Ali said.

Ethiopia invaded Somalia two years ago to expel Islamist forces who had taken control of Mogadishu, CNN said.