Al-Shabaab Militants Launch Assault on Somali Military Base
In a recent act of aggression, militants belonging to Al-Shabaab once again attacked an army base in southern Somalia on Sunday morning. The assault comes amid an ongoing crackdown against the group, which aims to topple the fragile UN-backed administration led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
According to reports, the militants utilized explosive devices to strike Awadheegle before dawn, followed by sporadic gunfire. The Somali government has not yet confirmed the extent of the attack or the number of casualties.
“Today has been the town’s darkest day,” a local resident conveyed to Axadle over the phone. Awadheegle, an important agricultural town situated 84 km west of Mogadishu, has become a prime target for the militants. Most soldiers are stationed at various frontlines across the country for military operations.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has been touring the nation to inspire soldiers on the frontlines. Consequently, several soldiers have faced military court trials for deserting their positions following an attack in Cawsweyne village.
It is anticipated that by December 2024, Al-Shabaab militants will have relinquished control over strategic towns in Somalia, with foreign troops expected to withdraw from the mission. The Somali National Army is being trained to assume security responsibilities nationwide.
Last Friday, the army successfully repelled an assault on Berdaale town, as reported by the Ministry of Defence, which closely monitors operations across the country. Located in the Bay region, an area that encounters significant conflict with the militants, Berdaale will be a focal point in the second phase of anti-Al-Shabaab operations.
“Our National Army, supported by local residents, effectively pushed back an attack by the Khawarij militia on Berdale district in the Bay region,” stated the Ministry. “This operation resulted in the elimination of the group’s leader and other militants.”
On their part, Al-Shabaab confirmed their attack on the town and asserted that they had compelled government troops to “flee” their base. However, it is widely known that the group employs propaganda to further their agenda, often exaggerating the number of casualties.
