Somali National Army backed by AMISOM troops has launched an offensive to recapture the al-Shabaab stronghold town of Janale on Monday.
Eyewitness in the area has reported a heavy exchange of fire in the agricultural town between the allied forces and the militants.
Military officials said they detonated a vehicle full of explosives set up by the fighters.
They said the plan is to retake the strategic town from the group which was retreated by SNA and AMISOM forces in 2015 following an attack by the group.
The operation by Somali National Army backed by international partners launched mid last year focused on strategic towns in the banks of river Shabelle.
The military maneuvers saw the recapture of Sabid, Anole, Barire and Aw-dhigle late last year.
The lower Shabelle region is believed to be a hub to organize explosive attacks in the capital Mogadishu targeting government installations
