Confirmed reports said that Al-Shabab fihters launched a deadly attack against Somalia’s federal government military base in locality close to Hawadley area, Middle Shabelle region of HirShabelle state administration, early Friday morning. Privately-owned Hiranonline reported.
“The attack began with a car bomb explosion, followed by intense clashes between the militant fighters and soldiers stationed at the base. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility, alleging that 21 soldiers, including military officers, were killed in the attack”, published the website.
Local communication networks were reportedly disrupted before the attack, hindering independent verification of the group’s claims. Al-Shabab also claimed to have captured soldiers and seized military equipment during the raid.
Somali officials have yet to issue a formal statement about the attack, which is the latest in a series of escalating security challenges in the region. Hawadley has previously been targeted; a similar assault in January 2023 claimed the life of Colonel Abshir Mohamud Mohamed Shataqey, commander of the Somali National Army’s 3rd Division, along with several other soldiers.
Source: Canada-based Hiranonline website on 20 December 2024
