MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – Al-Shabaab militants successfully recaptured the village of Daaru-Nimca in the Middle Shabelle region, as confirmed by local sources.
The fierce gun battle resulted in the tragic loss of at least seven lives.
Daaru-Nimca, which had been liberated earlier this year, fell under a devastating assault launched by the militants. The village, a small rural area, was seized by clan militia and allied government forces in January.
Despite initial resistance from local and government forces, they were unable to withstand the attack due to the lack of military support, ultimately leading to their retreat from the area.
Abdi Taakow Qadaxow, the leader of Macawisley in Daaru-Nicma, shared with VOA Somali that in addition to capturing the village, Al-Shabaab also destroyed the area’s sole mosque.
However, there was a glimmer of hope as Mr. Qadaxow reported that the militants returned 30 children and women who had been abducted from the village, while the Ma’awisley militia freed 30 civilians they had previously captured. This brought an end to one of the most significant civilian abductions in Middle Shabelle.
On Saturday, as Al-Shabaab withdrew from the village without resistance, the local militia and government forces swiftly returned. However, tragedy struck when a landmine explosion occurred as Ruunirgood district secretary and his aide were driving back to the village, resulting in their untimely deaths.
The recapture of Daaru-Nimca highlights the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab in the region and underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect the local population from further violence and instability.
Amidst a surge in militant attacks, the African Union forces, known as AMISOM, have completed the initial stage of their troop drawdown, relinquishing control of the final two Forward Operating Bases in Mogadishu and Jubaland State.
This development comes at a time when militant activities are on the rise, underscoring the challenges faced by Somalia and the need for continued efforts to maintain stability and security in the region.