(16 Sep 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – An Al-Shabaab militant surrendered to local forces on Monday in the coastal town of Harardheere, in the southern Mudug region. The militant, identified as 26-year-old Maslah Mohamed, originally from the Bay region in South West Somalia, had been serving as a low-ranking fighter with the group for over two years, participating in several battles and operations against local civilians.
Before his defection, he was reported to have been hiding in the Baraag-Hurdaaye area, 25 km from Harardheere.
His defection follows a recent surge in Al-Shabaab fighters surrendering, largely due to sustained military operations against the group, which have forced many militants to abandon the harsh conditions in the jungle.
Halqabsi News
