(22-10-23) MOGADISHU — Military forces, including Somalia’s National Army and local militia group Mawiisley, have escalated operations against the Al-Shabaab group in the Hiraan region of central Somalia, reliable sources told Halqabsi News on Sunday.
The heavy offensive is particularly concentrated along the Shabelle River, an area still harbouring Al-Shabaab militants. The troops are equipped with heavy artillery and military vehicles.
Commanders Colonel Abdullahi Barre and Hassan Farah Guled, officers of the federal government, are leading the operation. The forces received a warm reception from Farah Kooshin, commander of the 27th Division of the National Army, along with MP Mohamed Abduqadir Mohamed, a member of the Somali Parliament, among other officials.
The operation aims to liberate regions currently controlled by Al-Shabaab. Earlier efforts have resulted in the capture of key areas like Berayabaal and Jicibow.
Residents in the area expressed concerns about the potential for heavy combat and bombings, heightening tensions in the region.
Halqabsi News
