Friday February 7, 2025
Beledweyne (HOL) – Somali government forces, supported by local Ma'awisleey clan militias, killed a dozen al-Shabaab fighters during heavy clashes in the Hiiraan region on Friday morning.
The battle erupted after allied forces launched an offensive targeting fortified al-Shabaab positions along the Shabelle River, specifically in the Jicibow area, a strategically significant location.
Hiiraan Regional Governor Muse Salad Wehliye confirmed the operation's success, noting the elimination of key al-Shabaab leaders and fighters.
"We have driven the terrorists out of multiple areas, killed three of their leaders and several fighters, and captured others. The remaining militants have retreated west, crossing the Jicibow River," said Wehliye.
The latest offensive follows weeks of intense fighting between Beera Yabaal and Jicibow, two key areas along the Shabelle River's banks. The region has been the site of ongoing military efforts to dismantle al-Shabaab's network and secure key trade and agricultural routes vital to the local population.