(09 Feb 2025) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) — Security forces in Hirshabelle state have arrested several clan elders in Diinlaawe, a village under Mahadaay district, over allegations of negotiating with the militant group Al-Shabaab.
The operation was carried out by the Mahadaay District Police, led by Station Commander Dhamme Suleymaan Cowsey. According to Commander Cowsey, the detained elders had been summoned by Al-Shabaab and were instructed to convince the local Macawiisley militia to lay down their arms.
“The Khawarij [Al-Shabaab] called these elders and ordered them to disarm the local Macawiisley fighters who have been resisting their influence in Diinlaawe,” said Commander Cowsey.
The police chief urged the Macawiisley militia in the area to remain vigilant and ignore calls from Al-Shabaab, describing the group as “manipulative and deceitful enemies of the people.”
The arrests highlight the ongoing struggle between local resistance forces and Al-Shabaab, as the militant group seeks to expand its influence in central Somalia.
Halqabsi News
