Somalia’s Jubaland military says the army forces launched an attack on Al-Shabaab fighters in Gedweyne area near the town.

Jamal Hassan Farei, a senior commander of Jubaland forces confirmed at least 16 people — 11 Al Shabaab and 5 soldiers had been killed in the fighting.

"We have lost five soldiers and seven others sustained injuries during the fighting. We killed 11 Al-Shabab fighters and seized weapons,” Farei said.

He says the operation was carried out following tip-off as the group’s fighters were on their way to carry out an attack on Jubaland army camp in the region.

There was no immediate comment from Al-Shabaab over the military claims.

The group frequently launches deadly attacks in the towns bordering Kenya, targeting Jubaland forces and Kenyan troops.