Islamists Repulse Attack on Port, Seize Town
Islamic radicals repulsed an attack by pro-government forces to recapture the vital Somalian seaport of Kismayo and took control of a coastal town, in further signs of the central administration’s weakening grasp.
Forces loyal to the defense minister tried to retake Kismayo three weeks after losing it to Islamist fighters who have seized the capital, Mogadishu, and most of the south. Armed Islamic militia fighters were patrolling the streets and tensions remained high.
The Islamic Courts Union militia continued its advance with the symbolic takeover of Brava, a coastal town 125 miles southwest of Mogadishu. The town’s leaders, who are sympathetic to the Islamists, pledged to hand over their weapons.
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