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Heavy fighting erupted in Somalia’s Hiiraan region as the Ma’awiisley militia launched a coordinated assault against Al-Shabaab fighters entrenched in the village of Abooreey. The offensive, which began early Wednesday, marks one of the most intense battles between the locally organized militia and the extremist group in recent months. Residents reported sustained gunfire and explosions echoing across the area, signaling the scale of the confrontation.
The Ma’awiisley militia, named after the traditional sarong worn by its fighters, has been at the forefront of community-led resistance against Al-Shabaab. Though operating independently, the militia receives logistical support and encouragement from the Somali federal government, which views it as a key partner in efforts to reclaim rural territory. The latest assault follows similar clashes near El Hareeri, where Ma’awiisley forces targeted Al-Shabaab fighters regrouping in the bushlands surrounding the settlement.
Local sources indicate that more than 70 Al-Shabaab members have been killed in battles along the border of Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle over the past four days, though exact figures remain unverified. The militia’s campaign is part of an increasingly coordinated effort to dislodge Al-Shabaab from strongholds across central Somalia. Despite losing control of major towns and cities, the militant group continues to exert influence in the Somali countryside, collecting taxes, recruiting fighters, and using remote terrain as a base for launching attacks.
The Somali National Army (SNA) has expressed support for the Ma’awiisley militia’s operations, with officials stating that joint efforts are crucial to weakening Al-Shabaab’s grip on the region. Security analysts note that the militia’s ability to mobilize local fighters has made it a formidable force against the insurgents, particularly in areas where government troops face logistical challenges.
Residents in Abooreey remain on edge as the fighting continues, with reports of casualties on both sides. The remote location and ongoing combat have made independent verification difficult, but sources confirm that the battle is far from over. The Ma’awiisley militia has vowed to press forward, aiming to reclaim more territory and disrupt Al-Shabaab’s operations.
The offensive underscores the evolving dynamics of Somalia’s conflict, where community-based militias are playing an increasingly significant role in counterinsurgency efforts. As the Somali government continues its push to stabilize the country, the success of the Ma’awiisley militia’s campaign could shape future strategies in the fight against extremism.