Government forces repel Al-Shabaab attack on Wargaadhi in Middle Shabelle

Heavy clashes erupted early Thursday in Wargaadhi village, Middle Shabelle region, after Al-Shabaab militants launched a dawn assault on government positions, according to local sources.

The group initially claimed to have taken control of the village, while some local media reported that fighting was still ongoing. However, later updates from state media said Somali government forces had repelled the attack and maintained control of the area.

Somalia’s Ministry of Defence said in a post on X:

“Wargaadhi remains fully under the control of the Somali National Army and local forces. Joint security operations continue to ensure stability and safety in the area. The SNA stands firm, no inch of Somali soil will be surrendered to terror.”

Local sources reported that Al-Shabaab fighters briefly entered the airstrip and set fire to several structures and vehicles before being pushed back. Independent confirmation of casualties remains unavailable.

Wargaadhi hosts the second-largest military base in Middle Shabelle after Adan Yabaal, which fell to the group on April 18. The town is also a strategic supply route linking government-held areas in El-Dheer and Masagaway.