Friday January 31, 2025
Beledweyne (HOL) – The Somali National Army (SNA) and allied local forces have officially taken control of Jicibow in the Hiiraan region after intense fighting with Al-Shabaab militants on Thursday.
The battle, which lasted for several hours, occurred in the Jicibow area, a strategic stronghold for Al-Shabaab due to its location along the Shabelle River. The militants had used the area as a key crossing point between the western and eastern parts of the Hiiraan region.
Military officials confirmed that Al-Shabaab fighters were forcibly expelled from large defensive trenches they had built around the riverbanks to control movement in the region.
Speaking to local media, military officials described Thursday’s operation as a major victory, stating that Al-Shabaab suffered heavy casualties, with specific details expected to be released soon.
The Somali National Army, with support from local residents, has been conducting extensive anti-Al-Shabaab operations in eastern Hiiraan over the past four days, targeting areas between the towns of Halgan and Buula Burte.
In addition to Jicibow, the army has recently recaptured several other key areas, including Beero Yabaal, Bur Abooto, Eega Galmaay, Jidcilaan, and Cadow Gureey, all situated within the Hiiraan region.