Mogadishu, Somalia– Al-Shabaab militants launched a large-scale attack on Somali army bases in Awdheegle, a strategic town located approximately 65 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu, sparking intense clashes that have led to conflicting reports regarding control of the area.
According to state television and militant-affiliated media, the assault began at dawn on Saturday, with Al-Shabaab fighters overwhelming government forces and seizing key infrastructure, including the town’s main bridge and military barracks. The Somali National Army (SNA) units stationed in Awdheegle engaged in heavy combat but were ultimately forced to retreat after being overpowered.
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The militant group released images purportedly showing its fighters inside the town, while a separate video, allegedly filmed by a local resident, depicted smoldering military bases and a deserted bridge. Residents in Hawo Abdi and Lafole—neighborhoods just 15 kilometers from Mogadishu’s city center—reported seeing heavily armed militants and hearing gunfire, raising fears that Al-Shabaab may be attempting to disrupt reinforcements heading toward Awdheegle via the Mogadishu-Afgooye corridor.
Despite these reports, the Somali government later claimed its forces had successfully repelled the attack, inflicting heavy casualties on the militants. However, no independent verification has been provided, and video evidence circulating online contradicts the official narrative.
Separate Attack in Middle Shabelle
In a simultaneous offensive, Al-Shabaab militants attacked Sumadale village near Adale in the Middle Shabelle region, claiming to have killed 19 government soldiers. Graphic images allegedly depicting the slain troops were circulated by the group. Somali state media acknowledged the assault but maintained that government forces had ultimately repelled the attackers—though no evidence was provided to support this assertion.
These recent offensives come amid a surge in Al-Shabaab activity in the Middle Shabelle region, where the group has seized significant territory between Adan Yabal, Adale, Mahaday, and Jowhar. The militants’ advances threaten to undo progress made by Somali forces and allied clan militias during a two-year offensive launched in mid-2022.
Rising Concerns Over Security in Mogadishu
Despite sustained counterterrorism efforts, including hundreds of airstrikes by U.S., Turkish, and Ethiopian forces, Somalia’s government has struggled to regain lost ground. The latest attacks have heightened fears of an Al-Shabaab push toward Mogadishu from multiple fronts. While federal officials have downplayed these concerns, the scale and coordination of the assaults highlight the persistent threat posed by the extremist group.
The situation in Awdheegle and surrounding areas remains fluid, with government forces reportedly regrouping for a counteroffensive. Military officials have yet to provide a detailed assessment of the ongoing clashes.
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