(19-08-23) DHUSAMAREB – In a fresh bid to stamp out the menace of the Al-Shabaab militia, the Somali National Army commenced on Saturday new military operations in the Galgaduud Region, particularly focusing on the Galmudug and Hirshabelle areas.
Rather than an immediate takeover of urban centres where Al-Shabaab has a presence, the strategy emphasises first securing the rural and wilderness zones. These areas, often overlooked, serve as breeding grounds where militants reorganise.
Experts have interpreted this manoeuvre as a deliberate attempt to disrupt Al-Shabaab’s military prowess, ensuring long-term security of liberated zones. The forces, once deployed, are expected to remain indefinitely until security risks are fully neutralised.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, addressing a public gathering in Dhusamareeb city on Thursday, admitted a shift in the war plan against Al-Shabaab. Reflecting on lessons from the first phase of conflict, the President emphasised the importance of securing regions outside major districts before making an urban entry.
“Last year, our primary targets were the districts. The enemy was attacked, dispersed, and then the district reclaimed,” stated President Mohamud. He further elaborated, “Our revised strategy is rooted in past experiences. Post securing the regions, we now march towards Elbur with a clear mandate.”
Troops in the Galgaduud Region are steadily advancing towards key areas of Wabxo and Cowsweyne, critical for accessing the vast expanses of Elbur and Galhareeri. These soldiers tread with caution, having already diffused numerous roadside mines.
Military offshoots have concurrently been dispatched in diverse directions, reportedly pursuing smaller Al-Shabaab factions. These factions, it’s believed, might pose threats to urban centres once major forces penetrate the cities.
General Abdullahi Ali Aanood, the Defence Ministry spokesperson, described the operation as one of “clearing”. The cities of Wabxo and Cowsweyne are deemed strategically vital as Al-Shabaab uses them for fortifications, shielding them from major cities.
Upcoming engagements might see the military clashing with Al-Shabaab in these regions, given the army’s steady approach. The forces are further expected to traverse the terrains of Dac, Jajar, and Eelgaras, gradually making their way to Elbur.
Local forces, well-acquainted with the land, are spearheading the charge, identifying potential Al-Shabaab hideouts.
Initial indications suggested a brief military presence in these areas. However, observing the meticulous pace at which the army is moving, prioritising the safety of rural locales, the operation might be lengthier than anticipated. Yet, the rewards seem promising – eliminating Al-Shabaab’s notorious road ambushes and sieges.
President Mohamud, earlier this month, in Dhusamareb, underscored this mission’s objective: incapacitating Al-Shabaab in Central Somalia. His presence in Galmudug is viewed by many as a significant boost, urging both military and local forces to intensify their efforts.
Commanders like General Ahmed Aden Ali and his deputy, General Abdullahi Aden Hussein (Irro), have stationed themselves at the nation’s heart, underscoring the operation’s gravity.
This ongoing endeavour against Al-Shabaab seems poised at a critical juncture. Should the military successfully neutralise them in Galmudug, it will set the stage for the next crucial phase – liberating the western precincts of Hirshabelle.
Halqabsi News
