Somali Armed Forces Successfully Recapture Two Villages in Middle Shabelle Region

On Saturday August 12, 2023, Jowhar (AX) witnessed a successful military operation led by the Somali National Army (SNA) and supported by local militia forces. The operation resulted in the recapture of Runirgood and Hilowle Gab villages located in the Middle Shabelle region.

The joint forces had been strategically positioned on the outskirts of the villages for several days, as confirmed by residents. Their efforts paid off as they managed to completely remove al-Shabab militants from the area. However, there are still ongoing intensive operations to eliminate any remaining pockets of insurgency, according to a resident’s report.

The federal government and the Hirshabelle Regional State officials are anticipated to hold a press conference, shedding light on the successful recapture of these two villages. This achievement serves as a significant blow to the al-Shabab militants.

In a statement earlier this month, Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre announced the initiation of the second phase of the anti-al Shabab operation in Galmudug and Hirshabelle States. The upcoming operation is scheduled to target Jubbaland and the South West regions.