Numerous residents have fled the city and al-Shabaab fighters are patrolling the city, broadcaster Radio Garowe reported. The city had previously come under the jurisdiction of the Ahlu Sunnah militia, which supports the government of President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed.

But the government has slowly been losing control of the thin strip of land under its jurisdiction to the advancing al-Shabaab fighters.

A government spokesperson on Monday appealed for more international help on the BBC, saying that groups like al-Qaeda are gaining ever more influence in the country.

Several countries, including the United States, have listed al- Shabaab as a terrorist organisation. The group has noted the presence of international fighters in its ranks. Many of its leaders have reportedly visiting al-Qaeda training facilities

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