Sunday March 2, 2025
Somali government forces and allied local militias mobilize near Biyo Adde, Middle Shabelle, as part of an ongoing military offensive against Al-Shabaab militants. Armed soldiers stand guard near technical vehicles amid intensified security operations in the region. (Supplied)
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali government forces and allied local militias launched a large-scale military operation on Sunday in Middle Shabelle, targeting Al-Shabaab strongholds near Biyo Adde. The offensive comes a day after fierce clashes in the area, where Al-Shabaab militants attacked government positions, sparking hours of intense fighting.
Saturday’s battle erupted when Al-Shabaab fighters launched an assault on military checkpoints in Biyo Adde, triggering a prolonged exchange of heavy gunfire and artillery fire. Residents reported hearing sustained explosions, with fighting lasting for several hours. While casualty figures remain unconfirmed, the confrontation is part of an ongoing government campaign to reclaim Al-Shabaab-controlled territories in the region.
Somali military officials said Sunday’s operation hopes to build on the momentum of the previous day’s battle by flushing out Al-Shabaab militants from surrounding villages. Government forces have expanded their presence in and around Biyo Adde, securing key locations and dismantling militant hideouts.
The latest military push illustrates the Somali government’s efforts to curb Al-Shabaab’s influence in Middle Shabelle, a region that has witnessed a surge in insurgent attacks. Security analysts note that the militant group has intensified ambushes, hit-and-run raids, and bombings targeting both security forces and civilians.
Al-Shabaab, which has waged a violent insurgency for close to two decades, frequently targets government-held areas in an attempt to destabilize Somali security operations.
The Somali government has not yet issued an official statement on the outcome of the recent clashes. However, military sources tell HOL that operations will continue to secure contested areas and disrupt militant movements.
