Al-Shabaab Attack on Somali Military Base Tied to Defense Reforms, Results in Two Fatalities
BAIDOA, Somalia – Sunday’s al-Shabaab attack on a military outpost in Baidoa has been attributed to a recent military revamp, according to multiple security sources.
Militants stormed the outpost in Baidoa, Southwest’s regional hub, leading to a fierce battle that ended with two deaths and three critical injuries. The raid took place early in the morning, catching many off-guard.
Insiders revealed that some security personnel from the attacked site had been redeployed to Yaqbariweyne to bolster local forces amid a skirmish over a checkpoint dispute. Clashes over checkpoints are a frequent occurrence in Somalia.
In addition, about 20 paramilitary units had been shifted from the outpost to Barawe town. This rearrangement, sources believe, left vulnerability that al-Shabaab astutely exploited.
The ensuing combat was intense, culminating in the fatalities and injuries mentioned. Security teams asserted that the militants, eventually outmatched, were forced to withdraw after heavy resistance.
Al-Shabaab’s morning assault on Baidoa’s security outpost is uncommon, officials noted, confirming the militants’ defeat. This outpost is secured by paramilitary forces from the Southwest region.
The military has launched the second phase of their operations against al-Shabaab in the Southwest and Jubaland states. They are collaborating closely with regional forces and local militias. Meanwhile, al-Shabaab continues to target military installations.
Though not entirely foolproof, the Somali government remains resolute in its mission to eliminate the militant threat through partnerships aimed at promoting peace, security, commerce, and progress across the nation.
AXADLETM
