Security tensions remain high in Leego, in Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region, following heavy fighting between federal government forces and al-Shabab militants, with reports that government troops have returned to Camp Shiino and several soldiers and officers were wounded.
Local reports indicate that federal forces withdrew to Camp Shiino after the clashes near Leego. The reason for the reported withdrawal and the current situation at the locations where the fighting took place have not been independently confirmed.
Separately, a group of soldiers from the Hawadle clan, reportedly fighting separately from other forces in the area, is said to have spent nearly five hours in a difficult position while engaging al-Shabab fighters.
According to the accounts, the soldiers were accompanied by a wounded colleague and refused to leave him behind. Their efforts to protect the injured soldier while defending themselves reportedly kept them in the dangerous area for an extended period.
The group later sent a request for assistance to the Danab forces, Somalia’s specially trained military unit. Danab troops reportedly reached their position after receiving information about the location of the soldiers who had been isolated during the fighting.
Further details about the operation and the condition of the rescued personnel remain unclear.
Several officers and soldiers were also reported wounded in the clashes. Those named in the accounts include Major Abdulkadir Adan Aafi; Captain Abas Isse, identified as commander of the 172nd Company, 17th Brigade; Captain Abdi Hassan, identified as commander of the 174th Company, 17th Brigade; Second Lieutenant Abduwali, described as the logistics officer for the 174th Company; and Lieutenant Qaliil. Their reported injuries have not been independently verified.
The latest fighting highlights the continuing security challenges in Lower Shabelle, where government forces and al-Shabab regularly engage in military operations and armed confrontations.
The area is strategically important because of its road networks and links between Mogadishu and communities in southwestern Somalia.
The reported return of troops to Camp Shiino, the condition of wounded personnel and the alleged Danab rescue operation remain key aspects of the incident awaiting further confirmation.
The number of casualties on either side and the overall outcome of the fighting have not been established.