Somalia: Al Shabaab militants seize areas near Baidoa

Image

BAIDOA, Somalia-Dozens of Al Shabaab militants have poured into strategic areas near southwestern Baidoa town according to residents. 

Militants Monday seized Gofgadud Shabelow, 30km west of Baidoa right away after Somali government forces and African Union peacekeepers withdrew, Somalia’s Jowhar media has reported.  

Allied troops retreated to their bases on the outskirts of Baidoa, a day after Somali political leaders concluded National Leadership Forum (NLF) in the town. 

No clashes have been reported as militants moved in without resistance, sources added.  

Al Shabaab took back towns and villages in a similar peaceful strategy in the past.  

Officials have not spoken on the reasons behind the relocation of troops from Gofgadud which serves as a key connection between Qansah-Dhere, Ufurow and Diinsoor.

GAROWEONLINE 

Related Articles

Somalia: Hormuud Salaam Foundation provides cash aid to vulnerable women in Mogadishu

The foundation confirmed that this year’s initiative will reach more than 67,000 vulnerable individuals across Somalia.

  • Somalia

    28-02-2026

  • 02:09PM

Somalia: Somali Future Council Calls ‘Salvation’ Summit as Election Deadlock Looms

The group argued that the lack of certainty surrounding regional elections threatens a peaceful political transition for the country.

  • Somalia

    27-02-2026

  • 10:39PM