(12-08-23) MOGADISHU – In a powerful military manoeuvre, well-organised local forces have converged on Mahaas district in Hiraan region in a bid to liberate the Wabxo area in Galgaduud from the grip of Al-Shabaab on Friday.
Recent developments show a strategic deployment of troops, with reports in the last few hours indicating that a large contingent of forces is ready for action. These forces are set on freeing Wabxo, a stronghold of the extremist Al-Shabaab group.
Simultaneously, crucial meetings have been underway in the Adan-Yabaal district, Middle Shabelle region. Key stakeholders are deliberating on operational strategies for both Wabxo and Galcad areas, reflecting the gravity of the situation and the concerted efforts to eradicate the Al-Shabaab presence.
Major Abdimaalik, the former commander of the esteemed Danab army, is reportedly leading the operation. Now at the helm of a battalion of the national armed forces, his experience and leadership are anticipated to be pivotal in the coming days.
The campaign to purge Al-Shabaab from the Galmudug state is multifaceted. Intelligence suggests the extremist group is bracing for attacks from multiple directions, including Mahaas, Galcad, Eldheer, Harardhere, and Dhusamareb.
Yesterday, the first strike in this renewed offensive was witnessed in the Galhareeri district of Galgaduud. The Al-Shabaab faction experienced a severe blow, with three of their central hubs heavily bombarded. Preliminary reports hint at significant casualties, with many fighters believed to have perished in the assault.
In Dhusamareb, preparations are intensifying. Under the guidance of President Hassan Sheikh and Director Mahad Salad, a robust strategy is unfolding. The government forces, as per our sources, are planning an imminent direct assault on the historic district of Elbur – a known nerve centre for Al-Shabaab.
The coming days are crucial as the country’s forces mount an unprecedented operation to reclaim territories and push back against Al-Shabaab’s stronghold in these regions.
