Al-Shabaab seizes control of towns in Middle Shabelle, posing security threat to Mogadishu

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Al-Shabaab seizes control of towns in Middle Shabelle, posing security threat to Mogadishu

MOGADISHU (HORN OBSERVER) - Al-Shabaab militants have taken control of key towns within the Mahaday district of the Middle Shabelle region following the withdrawal of government forces.

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MOGADISHU (HORN OBSERVER) - Al-Shabaab militants have taken control of key towns within the Mahaday district of the Middle Shabelle region following the withdrawal of government forces.

Locals reported sightings of Al-Shabaab fighters on Saturday morning in the Mahaday district, where both the local clan militia and the Somali National Army had vacated.

The areas now under Al-Shabaab control, including Ali Fooldhere and Ciid Ciidka, are strategically located in the riverine region of Middle Shabelle, posing an imminent threat to the capital, Mogadishu.

Reports from officials of the Macawisley militia confirm that Al-Shabaab entered the area by crossing the Shabelle River, which has reached its maximum capacity. The decision to vacate the area by the local militia and Somali army appears to have been influenced by the possibility of impending floods, which could hinder movement and potentially lead to an attack.

The capture of Ali Fooldheere and Ciid Ciidka now allows Al-Shabaab to disrupt the crucial route connecting Middle Shabelle to the Hiiraan region in Hirshabelle, further complicating the security situation in the area.

Notably, the areas now under Al-Shabaab control were reclaimed by government forces and local militia just two years ago. However, recent trends indicate a concerning pattern of Somali forces and allied militia withdrawing from towns and villages in the Galmudug region, facilitating the militant group's advances.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Somali military officials have yet to issue a statement regarding the recent developments, leaving residents and observers anxious about the potential implications for regional security.

As Al-Shabaab's influence continues to expand in the region, urgent action will be required to address the growing threat posed by the group and to prevent further destabilization in Somalia.