Hiiraan region, Somalia – Heavy fighting has erupted over the past two days along the border between Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions, involving local community militia known as Macawiisley, backed by Somali National Army (SNA) forces, and the Al-Shabaab.
The battles, described as intense, have resulted in significant casualties on both sides. The conflict initially broke out at the regional border but soon spread to areas near the Aadan Yabaal district in Middle Shabelle.
Colonel Khaliif, a Macawiisley commander, confirmed that airstrikes targeted Al-Shabaab positions where some Macawiisley fighters were previously ambushed.
He stated that Al-Shabaab suffered heavy losses, forcing them to retreat from the frontlines where they had launched the attack.
Local militia forces reportedly pursued fleeing Al-Shabaab fighters into surrounding villages under Aadan Yabaal’s administration, continuing the military pressure in the region.
The Ministry of information reported that over 70 Al-Shabaab members were killed in the clashes without providing evidence as there is no independent sources confirming the claims.
