The Battle of Kismayo began on August 20, 2008 when Ogaden clan fighters took the battle to Ethiopian forces in Kismayo and their protectorate clan, the Marehan clan. Fighters began an offensive to conquer the Southern Somali port of Kismayo from pro-government militias. Three days of fighting reportedly killed 89 people and injured 207 more. The Ogaden clan led by Ahmed Madoobe took the town, at the expense of the Marehan clan who were up to that point kept in the city by the Ethiopian army. After the retreat of the Ethiopian army, the Marehan militia led by Barre Hiiraale were seen fleeing the city in all directions before eventually succumbing to Ras Kaambooni on August 22.[1][3]