The African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) backed by Somalia National Security Forces (SNSS) on Friday arrested seven Al-Shabaab militants in Kismayo, southern Somalia during a security operation.

The pan African body’s mission said an improvised explosive device (IED) factory was destroyed and several weapons recovered during the operation which was conducted in Caba, northwest of Kismayo to clear the militants’ compound.

“The early morning operation resulted in seven militants detained, one IED factory destroyed and several weapons including ammunition and chest racks seized,” AMISOM said in a statement.

The AU mission said other recent successful security operations in Gaduud, Beer Xaani, Dugulle, Aweys Jama and Tortoroow have seen the closure of illegal taxation centres.

“This was an important operation because it prevents Al-Shabaab from planning and conducting attacks against the Somalis in/around Kismayo,” it said.

The allied forces have stepped up security operations across the Horn of Africa nation, killing the insurgents and clearing all illegally manned roadblock from the region.

Al-Shabaab militants still control parts of Galgadud.

Al-Shabaab did not comment on the latest casualty by the Somali government officials on the battle conducted by Somali government soldiers and AU forces in Central Somalia.