Somali gov't troops move to seize town

MOGADISHU, Somalia, May 22 (UPI) -- Somali and African Union soldiers attacked several strongholds belonging to militant group al-Shabaab outside of Mogadishu Tuesday, officials said.

The assault was aimed at capturing the rebel-held town of Afgoye, roughly 18 miles south of Mogadishu, Shabelle Media Network reported.

Government forces seized Sabyo, roughly 5 miles north of Afgoye.

Fighting is ongoing in Afgoye and parts of Mogadishu. No casualties have been reported.