(18-06-23) MOGADISHU — Al Shabaab, the militant extremist group, has reportedly kidnapped more than 30 civilians from the Daru Nijma, under Ruun-Nirgood District of Middle Shabelle region. The missing individuals include elders, women, and children, with their current location unknown. This disconcerting news was disclosed by Ruun-Nirgood district commissioner, Moallim Muhidin Mohamud Kulmiye, in an interview with the VOA Somali Service on Sunday.
The abduction took place on Saturday night. The commissioner described the incident as a clear strategy by the extremist group to sow discord and spread terror among the residents of Middle Shabelle.
“These atrocities committed by Al Shabaab are aimed at creating chaos and terrorizing the people in the Lower Shabelle areas,” said Commissioner Kulmiye.
The regions of Ruun-Nirgood and Daru Nicma have been embroiled in conflict with Al Shabaab for a significant period. Earlier this year, government and local forces had succeeded in liberating these districts from the militant group’s stranglehold. This incident marks a disheartening development in the area’s tumultuous struggle for peace and stability.
As of now, the exact whereabouts and the condition of the kidnapped individuals remain unknown. This incident has left the locals in a state of apprehension and despair, once again highlighting the ever-present danger that Al Shabaab poses to the people of Somalia.
