MOGADISHU The African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia on Monday disclosed they will defend and prevent any offensive from Al shabaab, which the United States alleges to be Al Qaeda’s proxy in the horn of African nation.

In an interview with Shabelle Media Network, Paddy Akunda, the spokesman of AMISOM forces said they are committed to taking every possible measure to defend their miliray bases in Mogadishu from Al shabaab fighters who accustomed launching attacks during the month of Ramadan. He said they learnt the group is planning further attacks against them in the duration of the Ramadan. He also stated they will protect Somali people if Al shabaab extremist fighters targeted them. Two months ago, Al shabaab lost key military positions after battles with Somali forces backed militarily by AU troops in Mogadishu and the rebel group suffered countless and incalculable losses during those combat operations.