MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) — Residents say Somali Islamist rebels have beheaded at least 11 civilians in the capital in the past two weeks.

They said Friday the attacks are designed to show the insurgency can still act in Mogadishu after withdrawing from their bases there earlier this month. The al-Shabab rebels said the retreat was a ‘tactical withdrawal’ after coming under pressure from more heavily armed African Union troops.

Resident Afrah Abdikhayre says five decapitated bodies were found in his Suqa Holaha area last week. He says two beheaded men in Somali government uniforms and another three headless bodies were found this week.

Resident Nur Sugow says al-Shabab beheaded a donkey cart driver in the Yaqshid district. Al-Shabab frequently carries out beheadings and amputations.

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AP

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