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Somali government forces, backed by allied clan militias, have successfully recaptured two key villages from Al-Shabaab militants in Middle Shabelle, marking a significant victory in the ongoing campaign against the extremist group. The operation, which took place overnight, targeted Towfiiq and Geedi Heyr, rural settlements near the strategically located Masaajid Ali Guduud, where intelligence reports indicated that Al-Shabaab fighters were regrouping.
Military officials confirmed that the assault began late Friday and ended with government forces taking full control of both villages. The offensive was launched following actionable intelligence about militant gatherings in the area, prompting a swift response from Somali forces. “We acted decisively, and the area is now under our control,” a senior commander involved in the operation stated.
Several Al-Shabaab fighters were killed during the assault, though officials have not released specific casualty figures. Security sweeps are ongoing to clear the area of explosives and prevent militants from regrouping. The villages, though small, are located along key transit routes that Al-Shabaab has used to coordinate movements between southern and central Somalia, making their capture a tactical gain for the Somali government’s broader efforts to reclaim rural territory.
Middle Shabelle has been a focal point in the government’s campaign against Al-Shabaab, particularly since the involvement of Ma’awisleey—local clan fighters who have taken up arms in support of the state. While initial operations saw significant gains in 2022 and early 2023, progress has slowed in recent months due to funding shortfalls, logistical hurdles, and persistent insurgent attacks. However, officials say the latest offensive reflects renewed momentum in the fight against the militant group.
The campaign to weaken Al-Shabaab’s grip on Somalia’s interior continues to rely heavily on a mix of federal forces, local militias, and international support. The Somali government has reiterated its commitment to eliminating the extremist group, emphasizing that operations will persist until Al-Shabaab is fully dismantled. The latest victory underscores the growing capabilities of Somali forces and their determination to secure key regions from militant control.
As security forces consolidate their hold on the newly recaptured villages, the focus remains on stabilizing the region and preventing further insurgent activity. The Somali government has urged residents to cooperate with security forces and report any suspicious movements to authorities. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the government can sustain its territorial gains and continue pushing Al-Shabaab out of strategic locations.