Renewed fighting has broken out in Somalia's Hiiraan region as government troops, supported by local Macawiisley militia, confront Al-Shabaab militants in ongoing efforts to reclaim contested areas.
The latest clashes occurred on Sunday afternoon between Maxaas and Teedaan, marking a continuation of recent operations aimed at dislodging the insurgents from the region. Witnesses reported heavy gunfire exchanges and multiple explosions, with some vehicles reportedly hit during the confrontations.
Though official casualty figures have not been released, the intensity of the fighting suggests significant resistance from Al-Shabaab, which has attempted to regain control amid the military push.
Local media indicated that airstrikes were employed to target militant positions, although details on the aircraft and strike outcomes remain undisclosed. The Somali government has previously claimed successful arrests of individuals linked to Al-Shabaab during these operations, but independent verification is lacking.
This resurgence of violence follows a similar encounter the day before, where government forces and allied fighters surrounded militants, prompting an attack by Al-Shabaab to break the siege.
Security operations continue across central Somalia with coordinated efforts between government forces and community militias to weaken Al-Shabaab's foothold. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the situation develops.
