MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – The Al-Shabaab militant group seized control of the strategic town of Aden Yabal in the Middle Shabelle region on Wednesday, following a brief battle on the outskirts of the district.
Officials from the Federal Government of Somalia and the Hirshabelle regional administration confirmed that Al-Shabaab launched an aggressive assault and successfully took over the district.
Hirshabelle’s Minister of Security, Mohamed Kheyre, confirmed the takeover, stating that Al-Shabaab now has full control of Aden Yabal.
Aden Yabal had previously served as a major base for federal forces and allied local militias. It was also a key operational center for anti-Al-Shabaab campaigns in the Middle Shabelle region.
While the official death toll remains unknown, local residents reported casualties, including deaths and injuries, from the early-morning fighting.
Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for the attack, boasting that its fighters overran both government and militia positions. Photos circulating on social media show armed Al-Shabaab members inside the district’s police station.
Images also depict the militants in possession of military vehicles, weapons, and supplies that were previously provided by Somalia’s international partners.
The status of several government officials remains unclear. Some were reportedly seen fleeing the district, and the Somali government has yet to release an official statement regarding the missing personnel.
What Does the Fall of Aden Yabal Mean?
The fall of Aden Yabal marks a significant setback for the Somali government. It now retains control of only three districts in Middle Shabelle: Jowhar, Mahaday, and Balcad. The remaining areas have reportedly fallen under Al-Shabaab’s control.
In addition to this loss, government forces have also withdrawn from Yasooman and Abourey in the neighboring Hiran region, where intense fighting has continued in recent weeks.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud addressed the situation briefly, stating, “One day’s failure cannot define the overall fight against Al-Shabaab.”