Mogadishu (AX) — In an unsettling turn of events, Al-Shabaab militants have seized control of the crossroads town of Moqokori. This event marks their first significant foothold in the Hiiraan district in three years, raising alarms among residents and security officials alike. The capture occurred overnight on Monday, leaving the community reeling and government forces struggling to regain the upper hand.
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According to reports, units from the Somali National Army, supported by the Ma’awisley militia, gathered on the southern edge of the settlement early Tuesday. This concentrated force is preparing for a counteroffensive as they await crucial reinforcements from Beledweyne and Buuloburde. The tension in the air is palpable. How can one community rise against such tumult? It’s a question that echoes through the minds of many affected.
During the assault, communications within Moqokori and neighboring villages were disrupted. Phones and internet access vanished as swiftly as a candle’s flame in a storm. This lack of connectivity hindered independent casualty reports, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear. Villagers fleeing to the north described harrowing scenes, filled with the sound of heavy small-arms fire and the unsettling echo of at least two explosions. Those chilling moments, when chaos reigns, remind us of the fragility of peace.
Moqokori is not merely a town; it occupies a strategic crossroads that links Hiiraan to the Middle Shabelle and Galgaduud regions. This junction is vital for transporting troops and supplies toward key locations like Beledweyne and Jowhar. The loss of Moqokori could severely jeopardize a supply corridor that the government has relied on during a two-year offensive against Al-Shabaab, which has been bolstered by U.S. airstrikes. Imagine the consequences of losing not just a town, but a lifeline vital for restoring stability.
Local lawmakers from Hiiraan have voiced their frustrations, pointing fingers at what they perceive as inadequate federal support. They indicate that requests for air cover and armored support made over the weekend went unanswered by the Defence Ministry. This lag in response raises critical questions: How can effective defense be mounted without the necessary resources? And what toll does this lack of support take on the morale of those on the front lines?
Despite the government’s previous successes in retaking dozens of towns during a broader campaign, Al-Shabaab still commands substantial swathes of the countryside. They often stage nighttime raids, contesting areas that have only recently been reclaimed. It’s a gritty reminder of the work that still lies ahead. Victory can be elusive in such a complex landscape, where each gain is met with fierce resistance.
In moments like these, the resilience of the human spirit shines through. Local leaders and citizens remember a time when calm enveloped their streets, when the sound of children playing and laughter filled the air. It was during such times that community gatherings and shared meals painted a portrait of togetherness. Now, the drums of war drown out those cherished memories.
In conclusion, while the situation in Moqokori evolves, we must keep our focus on the stories of those living through this turmoil. With each report, we learn more about the human cost of conflict, the tenacity against adversity, and the unyielding hope for a return to peace. As we await further updates, it’s essential to remember that these aren’t just statistics; they are lives—each with unique stories, dreams, and a desire for a brighter future.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring.
