Mogadishu - Twenty-five people were killed and at least 28 were wounded yesterday in clashes between rival Somali factions fighting for control of the strategic southern port of Kismayu, witnesses said.
They said hundreds of militia belonging to the Marehan clan fought Majertein forces led by Gen Mohamed Saeed Hirsi Morgan, which won control of the city from the Marehan last year.
Radio reports said the fighting then spread to streets before the Marehan were driven back to their stronghold at Gobwein, around 15 km north of Kismayu.
All businesses, shops and markets in Kismayu closed down and some of the business community fled with their goods to neighbouring villages, radio reports said.