Hundreds of Somali soldiers trained with US funding have deserted, with some crossing over to the al-Qaida-linked militants they are supposed to be fighting, it emerged today.

The troops, backed with millions of US dollars, are leaving the ranks because they are not receiving their $100 (£65) monthly wage. The desertions raise fears that an American-backed drive next month to strengthen Somalia's army may increase the ranks of the insurgency.