(11-10-23) MOGADISHU — After over a month of intensive fighting, Somali National Army forces have captured and cleared Al-Shabaab trenches in the Ciid-Ciidka forest area of Middle Shabelle region, according to a statement by the Defence Minister on Wednesday. The minister termed the victory as a significant milestone for “peace and stability” in the country.
Photographs released by the military show extensive trenches in the forest once occupied by Al-Shabaab fighters. The images suggest that the extremist group placed significant strategic importance on this area. The forest was a key tactical point, as the group had planned to extend their influence into the uncontested regions of Middle Shabelle.
In the protracted engagement, local residents alongside government forces offered strong resistance to the militant group. Al-Shabaab had initiated conflict both in the air and on the ground, making it one of the longest direct confrontations witnessed in recent years.
Al-Shabaab’s ambitions to expand into Galgaduud were prevented by the Somali National Army and local resistance. Their options for retreat were also severely limited as boats they had used for transportation were destroyed. Airstrikes further hampered the group’s movements, confining them to their fortified positions.
Halqabsi News
