Fighting broke out in and near the southern Somali town of Qansahdhere in the Bay region early Saturday, according to local reports and security officials.
Fighters identifying themselves as the South West Liberation Front, engaged in combat with a militia loyal to the regional administration.
Local sources reported sporadic gunfire and army vehicles moving through the town, as each faction sought to control strategic locations.
Qansahdhere lies in the South West State of Somalia which has repeatedly been the site of battles between militants, security forces and local militia elements.
Local sources added that several routes to the town had been sealed off due to the escalating confrontation. There were no official reports of casualties.
