Baledweyne (Kaab TV) – Somali government forces, supported by local militias, have taken over important areas in the Hiran region from Al-Shabaab. The operation marks a significant success in the campaign across the country to destroy the strongholds of the militant group.
The liberated areas include Beera Yabal, Jibibow, Biya Madobe, and Arooso, all located along the Shabelle River. These areas, which are important for Al-Shabaab’s secret operations, are between the districts of Buulaburte and Halgan, where they have been for a long time.
“This was a well-planned operation that seriously undermined the militia’s ability to operate,” said a senior military officer involved in the operation. Officials also noted that Al-Shabaab fighters crossed the Shabelle River in boats from the west of Hiran, where the group is still located.
Hiran Hog is an important city in Somalia’s war with Al-Shabaab. It was in this region when the local communities, who were tired of violence and extortion, started a grassroots rebellion against the militias. The latest operations not only reinforce those earlier efforts but also demonstrate the growing cooperation between the Somali military and local fighters.