(30-05-24) BAIDOA (Halqabsi News) — Three members of the extremist group Al-Shabaab surrendered to Somali authorities in the South West State today, citing their inability to endure the harsh conditions imposed by the group. The former fighters, Ibrahim Hussein Mohamed, Nur Mohamed Abukar, and Yare Ali Hussein, were welcomed by the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) in Baidoa.
The men, who had been active in conflicts across various regions, used media interviews to call on their former comrades to abandon Al-Shabaab and surrender to the government. Their defection marks a notable success in the ongoing fight against the group, which has a strong presence in the South West and is responsible for numerous attacks in the state.
This surrender comes as Somali government forces, backed by local militias like the Mawiisley, intensify their offensive against Al-Shabaab in the second phase of a major military campaign. The increased pressure on the militant group has led to a surge in defections, signalling a potential turning point in the government’s efforts to restore peace and stability.
Halqabsi News
