MOGADISHU, Somalia – Al-Shabaab militants stormed the strategic town of Masjid Ali Gadud on Wednesday after intense fighting with local armed people and Somali National Army troops.
The assault began in the early hours when the al-Qaeda-linked fighters attacked military positions in both Masjid Ali Gadud district and nearby Geelgub village, about 40 kilometers from Adale town.
After hours of heavy exchanges, insurgents pushed into the town, forcing government troops into a tactical retreat despite they were later recaptured the town.
Al-Shabaab claimed via its propaganda channels that its fighters had overrun multiple military bases and inflicted heavy casualties, though Somali authorities have not yet confirmed these assertions.
Local officials acknowledge the militants’ advance but insisted reinforcements are being deployed and enabled to retake the area.
The attack comes just a day after Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Adale to oversee military operations and rally local forces against the insurgency.
His administration has repeatedly vowed to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s grip on rural regions, but today’s loss underscores the militants’ resilience.
Security analysts warn that the group is exploiting the SNA’s stretched supply lines and seasonal mobility challenges to regain lost territory.
The Middle Shabelle region, a crucial agricultural zone, has seen escalating clashes in recent months as both sides vie for control.
Residents reported fleeing the area amid the violence, while humanitarian groups fear renewed displacement. The Somali government has yet to issue an official casualty count, but sources indicate significant losses on both sides.
This latest offensive signals Al-Shabaab’s continued ability to strike back despite sustained military pressure, raising fresh concerns over the pace of Somalia’s stabilization efforts.
