Al-Shabab 'retreats' in battle for town

At least 12 people were killed in the heavy fighting for control for Rabdhure.

Despite losing major towns to AMISOM and government troops, al-Shabab still carries out attacks across the country. 

Late last month the group attacked the heavily-fortified Somali presidential palace compound, blasting through a gate with a car bomb and engaging palace guards in a gun battle that left 14 people dead, including nine al-Shabab fighters. The president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, was unharmed.

Earlier this year, Mohamud said his country was preparing for a military offensive, led by the expanded 22,000-strong AU force, to drive the al-Shabab out of their remaining strongholds by the end of 2014.

Al-Shabab 'retreats' in battle for town - Africa - Al Jazeera English