MOGADISHU. Feb I: The number of US troops deployed tn Somalia during operation restore hope will be cut by 2,700, most of them marines, the .spokesman for the US troops In the horn of African nation said Sunday

Colonel Fred Peck said the reduction was due to "logistical restructuring".

"The logistics sustainment responsibility for United Task Force Somalia (UNITAF Somalia), was recently shifted from the marines to the army. In accordance with the original plan for this operation." he said.

These reductions were made possible because the individual units or detachments have completed their mission."

The return of the 2,700 men to their home bases will start Monday.