The group, led by Yusuf Mohamed, is associated with former Al-Shabaab deputy commander Mukhtar Robow Ali, who now serves as Somalia’s Minister of Religious Affairs.

Taking matters into their own hands, the determined "Dulmi Diid” fighters have initiated patrols in the rural areas surrounding Baidoa, the seat of Somalia’s Southwest State.

According to their commander, the militiamen’s primary objective is to push back against Al-Shabaab’s reign of terror and put an end to the brutal oppression inflicted upon the people of Baidoa.

Al-Shabaab’s recent blockade on Baidoa has caused immense suffering for its residents, leading to soaring food prices and scarcity of essential commodities like fuel.

In response to this suffering, the "Dulmi Diid” militia has risen with a resolute spirit, calling for both the regional authorities and the Federal Government forces to unite in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

It is crucial to note that "Dulmi Diid” is not affiliated with the government forces or the South West administration. While the group consists mainly of ethnic Rahanweyn, they are distinct from the Ma’awisley militia fighters, who have been engaged in clashes with Al-Shabaab in Hiiraan and Galgaduud regions.

They assert their independence, yet they appeal to the federal government and the Southwest State forces to join forces against the common enemy.

Sporting head turbans —similar to their rivals Al-Shabaab— and military camouflage, some members of the armed group conceal their faces as they diligently patrol the areas surrounding Baidoa, relentlessly pursuing Al-Shabaab elements.

Despite reaching out to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud without response, Yusuf Mohamed’s message to the defense minister, Abdukadir Jama, is loud and clear – "Come and support us in Southwest State.”

The "Dulmi Diid” militia also calls upon international partners to collectively combat the menace of Al-Shabaab.

"We tell the world that it Dulmi Diid is committed to continue its operations until we eliminate Al-Shabaab from this country. We call the world to support us and join in these efforts,” he added.

Al-Shabaab remains a potent threat to the government and communities throughout Somalia, staging frequent attacks, blockades, and targeted assassinations. Controlling vast territories, including rural villages and critical roads leading to Baidoa, the extremist group has exploited the gradual withdrawal of the African Union Mission (ATMIS) forces.

Just las week, President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen of Southwest State has explicitly acknowledged the grave danger posed by Al-Shabaab. He calls on the public and authorities to unite and prepare for the collective fight against the terrorist organization, with the ultimate aim of liberating the region from its grip.

"Al-Shabaab, specially those who hail from Rahanweyn has become a cruel group,” Laftagareen told his cabinet on Thursday.

As the "Dulmi Diid” militia embarks on its mission to confront Al-Shabaab, the eyes of the Somalis remain fixed on Southwest State, recognizing the urgency of collective action to address this persisting threat and restore peace and stability to the region.

The story first appeared on Kaabtv