Al-Shabaab launches dawn attacks on Somali forces in Middle Shabelle

Al-Shabaab fighters carried out a dawn attack on government and local militia bases in Ceel Cali Axmed, located in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region, early Thursday morning, according to local media reports. The assault reportedly began with explosions, followed by direct fighting.

Somalia’s Defence Ministry issued a statement on its official social media platforms, claiming the government forces inflicted “a heavy defeat” on Al-Shabaab and that the operation was “planned.”

“The Khawarij suffered a heavy defeat, and our heroes are actively pursuing the remaining militants to bring them to justice,” the statement read. The government uses the term “Khawarij” to refer to Al-Shabaab.

Heavy clashes were also reported in multiple areas across Middle Shabelle, including Ciid Ciidka, Daaru Nicma, Ali Fooldheere, and Al Kawthar, following Al-Shabaab attacks on multiple fronts.

Independent verification of casualty figures or the ground situation remains unavailable.

Ceel Cali Axmed is located near Adan Yabaal, a town that Al-Shabaab controlled for over 15 years before government forces captured it last year. Analysts say the group may be attempting to retake Ceel Cali Axmed as a strategic point to launch efforts to recapture Adan Yabaal.

The attack comes as Somali forces continue their operations against Al-Shabaab in parts of the Hiran and Middle Shabelle regions.