Al-Shabaab Seizes Key Village in Central Somalia Amid Escalating Battle  

Hiran region, Somalia — Al-Shabaab militants claimed Sunday they have recaptured the village of Tardo in the Hiran region, which was previously seized by Ma’awisley fighters [Clan militia] and the Somali army in September 2022.

The announcement comes shortly after the group’s capture of Moqokori last week, another strategic location in the ongoing conflict.

Reports from nearby Mahaas town indicate increased military activity, with reinforcements arriving from the neighboring Galgudud region to support local forces. However, local elders and community leaders have yet to announce any plans for a counterattack against Al-Shabaab’s advances.

Tardo and Moqokori are considered critical areas in the fight against the insurgent group due to their strategic importance for controlling movement and resources in the region.

The recent gains by Al-Shabaab underscore the ongoing security challenges in central Somalia, where government forces and allied militias continue to face stiff resistance from the militant group.

Residents in affected areas continue to endure instability and disruption as clashes persist, raising concerns over the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

No official response from Somali government forces has been released regarding the recent developments.

GAROWE ONLINE