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| Africa Horn |
| Dozens of Clan Fighters Surrender to Al-Shabaab in Central Somalia: Sources |
| 2025-06-21 |
| 19/06/2025 [ShabelleMedia] Dozens of clan-based fighters known as “Macawiisley” have reportedly surrendered to the Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab group in parts of Somalia’s central Middle Shabelle region, local sources said on Thursday. The defections come in the wake of a significant withdrawal of Somali government and African Union forces from several key areas, including the strategic village of Xawaadleey, which was recently abandoned after flooding from the Shabelle River. According to local elders and officials, the Macawiisley fighters had long relied on logistical and military support from Burundian troops stationed in the area. Following the troop withdrawal, the fighters were left without supplies or reinforcements, prompting some to negotiate their surrender to Al-Shabaab. “More than 20 of our fighters have surrendered to Al-Shabaab,” a Macawiisley spokesperson confirmed, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. “They had no choice after support was cut off.” Local elders are said to be playing a key role in mediating between the clan militias and the Islamist group to ensure a peaceful handover. Witnesses report that Al-Shabaab has disarmed those who surrendered and absorbed them into its ranks or detained them. The Macawiisley militia, composed largely of local clan volunteers, had been fighting Al-Shabaab in the region for several years with government backing. Their recent collapse marks a significant gain for the militants, who have intensified their campaign in central Somalia amid faltering counter-insurgency efforts. Related: Macawiisley: 2025-06-09 Heavy clashes erupted Saturday in Hiran region as Somali army, local militia battle Al-Shabaab, push continues Sunday Macawiisley: 2025-06-01 Troop buildup on Somalia’s Hiiraan–Middle Shabelle border sparks fears of fresh clashes Macawiisley: 2025-05-27 Landmine Blast Kills One, Injures Two in Central Somalia Amid Ongoing Clashes Related: Middle Shabelle: 2025-06-14 Somali forces kill 13 Al-Shabaab fighters in central operation: ministry Middle Shabelle: 2025-06-12 Somali Forces Launch Major Military Push in Middle Shabelle region Tuesday Middle Shabelle: 2025-06-09 Heavy clashes erupted Saturday in Hiran region as Somali army, local militia battle Al-Shabaab, push continues Sunday |
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