(19 Aug 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – A second Al-Shabaab militant has reportedly surrendered to government forces in Galgaduud region. Ismail’s surrender came just hours after Ilyas, also known within the group as Ali Said, surrendered to government forces early Monday morning in Mesagawa village, near El Dheer district, Galgaduud.
Ismail, who had joined the militants from Dinsor district in Bay region, handed himself over to joint Somali National Army (SNA) and local community forces on the outskirts of El Dheer district.
The militant claimed that the harsh living conditions in the forested areas were unbearable, leading to his decision to abandon militant activities and seek support from government forces. Al-Shabaab has seen a surge in defections in recent months, including among senior figures in the Galmudug State, largely due to sustained military operations against the group.
Halqabsi News