JOWHAR (Kaab TV) – At least six soldiers were killed when gunmen ambushed a vehicle they were traveling in near El Baraf town on Thursday, located in the Middle Shabelle region of Hirshabelle State, local officials have confirmed.
Jalalaqsi District Commissioner, Nuur Dheere, stated that the attack appeared to be clan-related, targeting the men based on their clan identity.
All the victims were members of the Ma’awisley militia from the Hiiraan region.
However, Commissioner Nuur Dheere clarified that the deceased were also Somali National Army personnel.
El Baraf has been the epicenter of recent clan clashes between Hawadle and Abgal militias, further heightening tensions in the area.
Hirshabelle State President Ali Abdullahi Hussein Guudlawe strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a “brutal and un-Islamic act” that violates Somali cultural values and human rights.
“This heinous act goes against Islamic law, Somali morals, and human rights. I am ordering the security forces to bring the perpetrators to justice within 24 hours,” read a statement from the Hirshabelle State Presidency.
President Guudlawe also expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and urged the people of Hirshabelle to avoid actions that could undermine community security and unity.