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| Africa Horn |
| Somali Forces and Local Militias Launch Major Offensive Against Al-Shabaab in Central Region |
| 2025-06-26 |
| [ShabelleMedia] Somali government troops backed by local militias have launched a large-scale military operation in the central Middle Shabelle region, targeting areas previously controlled by the Al-Qaeda-linked group Al-Shabaab, security sources and residents said on Thursday. The operation is concentrated around Masaajid Cali Gaduud, a strategic town recently recaptured by Somali forces after being held by Al-Shabaab fighters for several months. The offensive has since expanded to nearby villages, including Towfiiq, where heavy troop movements have been observed. Residents reported seeing heavily armed Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers and allied Macawiisley militias streaming into the area in a push to dislodge remaining militants. Following the retaking of Masaajid Cali Gaduud, the army conducted mine clearance operations to secure key roads and infrastructure. Military officials said the town was used by Al-Shabaab as a launch point for attacks in Hirshabelle state and surrounding regions. “Al-Shabaab has suffered heavy losses and has been forced to withdraw from several villages,” a military spokesperson told Radio Shabelle, requesting anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to the press. Related: Middle Shabelle: 2025-06-25 Somalia delisted from child soldiers recruitment countries Middle Shabelle: 2025-06-24 Al-Shabaab Weapons Store Destroyed in Somalia Middle Shabelle: 2025-06-24 Somali Forces, Supported by Local Militias, Kill Over 20 Al-Shabaab Fighters in Clashes in Hiiraan Related: Masaajid Cali Gaduud: 2025-03-29 Al-Shabaab seizes strategic town during Somalia President's frontline trip Masaajid Cali Gaduud: 2025-03-29 Why Al-Shabaab intensified attacks in Somalia recent months Related: Macawiisley militia: 2025-06-24 Somali Forces, Supported by Local Militias, Kill Over 20 Al-Shabaab Fighters in Clashes in Hiiraan Macawiisley militia: 2025-06-21 Dozens of Clan Fighters Surrender to Al-Shabaab in Central Somalia: Sources Macawiisley militia: 2025-05-27 Landmine Blast Kills One, Injures Two in Central Somalia Amid Ongoing Clashes |
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