Islamist militia seize pirate haven in central Somalia

2 May 2, 2010 - 1:25:45 PM

Hundreds of fighters from Somalia’s militant group Hizbul Islam on Sunday moved into the strategic northern pirate lair of Haradhere and captured without a fight, forcing pirates to flee with their hostages to neighboring districts.
Residents reported that the militant fighters with ten battle wagons entered the town early on the day, sending pirates fleeing with their hostages and cars.
Confirming the took over, Sheikh Mohamed Osman Arus, Hizbul Islam spokesman said the fighters will going on with the plan of capturing the region.
"Our fighters are in Harardhere to clear the area from insecurity and we will Inshallah cross into the other towns in the region," he said.
He denied that his group has sent representatives to the coastal town to demand a share of the piracy business which the sea gangs refused.
Pirates have claimed that they have rejected advances from the group to get share of the lucrative business.
The move by Hizbul Islam to take over the pirate den comes a week after another insurgent group, Al-Shabaab made military advance in the town, sending shock waves over a possible militant reign in the region.
Both Al-Shabaab and Hizbul Islam have in the past denounced piracy along the coastlines of Somalia. Hizbul Islam is led by Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys, who is based in Mogadishu.
More than 11 ships and over 100 hostages are currently in the hands of Somali pirates waiting ransom payment.
GAROWE ONLINE