(12-04-23) DUSAMAREB – The Somali forces are currently conducting operations against the Al-Shabaab terrorist group in the area of Ali Afrah, situated 12 km from the city of Galcad in the Galgaduud region. Local communities in Ali Afrah have welcomed the army, which has successfully captured a number of militiamen disguised as civilians.
The Somali army received information from local residents about the presence of 12 individuals suspected of belonging to Al-Shabaab. Following their arrest, the detained members are now being investigated. The army’s advance has led to Al-Shabaab fleeing from their positions in the area, leaving behind vehicles due to fuel shortages.
According to Mohamed Abukar Hassan (Sharib), the commander of the 9th unit of the 18th brigade of the Gor Gor army, the military is now 43 km away from the Elbur district in the central Galgaduud region, where Al-Shabaab is known to be based. Hassan revealed that internal conflict within the terrorist group has arisen, with some members choosing to surrender to the government, while others refuse.
The officer also stated that in certain areas, local residents fled alongside the retreating Al-Shabaab forces. The Somali army has been successful in bringing some families back to their homes. However, the ongoing conflict and heavy rain in the region have significantly impacted the displaced population.
Al-Shabaab is reportedly forcing civilians to evacuate their homes when government forces approach, with the intention of using them as human shields to avoid being targeted in the bush. The Somali national army is determined to continue its pursuit of Al-Shabaab in the Galgaduud region to ensure the safety and security of its citizens.
