(30-01-24) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) — Hirshabelle State has accused the militant group Al-Shabaab of instigating clan violence in Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions. Hirshabelle’s Minister of Interior, Abdi Dahir Guure Karoore, alleged that Al-Shabaab has been stirring up conflict between the Abgal and Hawadle clans in Iji area over the past few days.
“Recently defeated in military operations, Al-Shabaab has now shifted to driving a wedge among clans. This is a malicious strategy to distract the local community, which is rising against them, and to reduce pressure on themselves,” the minister noted. He emphasised that both the federal government and the HirShabelle administration are fully aware of Al-Shabaab’s nefarious tactics and are working to thwart such attempts.
The Hirshabelle government has initiated efforts to mediate the conflict, involving clan and traditional leaders from the affected communities. The accusation came following renewed clashes in areas along the border of the two regions, resulting in ten deaths and many injuries.
Halqabsi News
