Clashes erupt between Macawisleey, Al-Shabaab near Hiiraan–Middle Shabelle border

Heavy fighting broke out on Friday between government-backed Macawisleey militia and Al-Shabaab militants in the Hararta area, local reports said.

The settlement lies between Ceel Hareeri in Hiiraan and Aadan Yabaal district in Middle Shabelle.

Government media said Macawisleey forces launched an operation targeting an active Al-Shabaab unit. The offensive is part of wider efforts to weaken the group’s presence in the region.

Local commanders told SNA Radio that nearly 10 Al-Shabaab militants were killed and over 10 rifles were seized. They said the group’s planned attack in the area was thwarted.

Deputy Minister of Information Cabdiraxmaan Yuusuf Al Cadaala praised the militia fighters in a Facebook post.

“Thank you, people of Hiiraan, for once again showing Al-Shabaab who you are. You are a source of defence and inspiration for all Somalis. The corpses of Al-Shabaab you stepped over will be remembered, Alhamdulillah,” he wrote.

Government sources said Macawisleey fighters remain in control of the area and are continuing operations.

Casualty figures reported by the government could not be independently verified.