In a significant development, local militia in central Somalia emerged victorious following a fierce clash with the notorious Al-Shabaab militants, who have been relentless in their attacks on security forces, government officials, and innocent civilians, causing immense devastation.
According to official reports, in Bulacle, located in the Galgaduud region, the local militia managed to neutralize three Al-Shabaab militants, while capturing one alive. The three militants lost their lives while engaging in a gun battle with the well-organized local fighters who have resumed their operations in Somalia.
Reports from Galgaduud have also confirmed that a total of eight Al-Shabaab fighters were involved in the confrontation, with four managing to escape but sustaining severe injuries. Additionally, the successful operation led to the confiscation of an AK47 rifle and a motorbike from the militants.
Governor Moalim Abdirahman Geedagorow of Dhusamareb, alongside other senior government officials, visited the scene of the clash to commend and encourage the local community to actively oppose the militants. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has persistently called on the locals to actively participate in the fight against terrorism.
The initial phase of the offensive against Al-Shabaab was partially successful due to the voluntary involvement of local militia in the HirShabelle and Galmadug states, resulting in the elimination of approximately 3,000 militants. Currently, the Somali National Army, in collaboration with local forces and international partners, is conducting thorough searches in these two states.
Although there was a decline in the engagement of local militia in subsequent encounters, recent efforts have been made to mobilize them. Reports suggest that a number of militia members have recently taken up arms against the militants, providing a significant boost to the ongoing operations against Al-Shabaab.
Once the operations in central Somalia are concluded, the national army, along with local militia, soldiers from the US Africa Command, and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS], will proceed to launch similar operations in the Jubaland and Southwest states. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has already given the green light for this next phase.
