BELEDWEYNE (KAAB TV) – Somali government and local forces have officially taken control of Jicibow area in Hiran region, after a fierce battle with Al-Shabaab.
The battle, which lasted for several hours, took place in Jicibow, a strategic area of Al-Shabaab, as they are located along the Shabelle River. Al-Shabaab has made the area an important gateway connecting the west and east of Hiran region.
Army officials confirmed that Al-Shabaab forces were forcibly removed from large defenses they had built along the Jin River to control movement in the region.
Military officials who spoke to the local media described Thursday’s operation as a great success, confirming that Al-Shabaab suffered heavy losses, with specific details expected to be released soon.
The armed forces of the country with the help of the local people have been conducting large-scale operations against Al-Shabaab in the areas of Hiraan region between Halgan and Bulaburte cities for the past four days.
In addition to Jicibow, the army recently recaptured other important areas such as Beero Yabal, Bur Abooto, Ceega Galmaay, Jidcilan, Adow Gurey, all of which are in Hiran region.