MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) — The extremist group al-Shabab has taken control of the central Somali town of Mahaas following a coordinated assault involving explosions and ground offensives on Sunday. Witnesses report that the attack began early in the morning, characterized by multiple suicide blasts and heavy gunfire.
Mahaas is situated in the central Hiraan region, approximately 350 kilometers (220 miles) north of Somalia's federal capital, Mogadishu. This town holds strategic importance as it has served as a key government outpost and is vital in the ongoing efforts to combat al-Shabab, which has been engaged in a violent campaign to overthrow the federal government and implement a strict interpretation of Islamic law.
According to local residents and officials, al-Shabab forces entered Mahaas after federal and local troops retreated from the area. Ahmed Abdulle, an elder from Mahaas, conveyed details of the attack, stating that the suicide blasts occurred just outside the town, followed by intense gunfire. The withdrawal of government troops and allied militia, known locally as Ma'awisley, happened just before the insurgents took control.
Al-Shabab has openly claimed responsibility for the assault through their affiliated media outlets, announcing that the town is now under their control. Although concrete casualty figures are yet to be confirmed, Isse Abdi Wayel, the district commissioner of Mahaas, mentioned that a provincial representative of the National Intelligence and Security Agency was among the victims. The federal government has not issued any official statement regarding the incident.
The seizure of Mahaas highlights the enduring resilience of al-Shabab, especially as they confront renewed military offensives from Somali federal troops and their allies. Despite regular airstrikes carried out by the U.S. targeting the group and support from African Union troops in various regions of Somalia, al-Shabab continues to maintain influence in several areas.
In recent months, however, al-Shabab has experienced setbacks as they face a declared campaign of "total war" initiated by the Somali authorities. The Somali armed forces have successfully reclaimed several towns and villages in remote regions over the past year, marking some military progress against the insurgents.
Previously, Mahaas had been controlled by the Somali government for over ten years and acted as a forward operating base in offensives aimed at al-Shabab's positions in Hiraan and the neighboring Galgaduud region. The recent loss of this town raises significant concerns regarding the coordination among Somali security forces and the sustainability of recent military achievements in the ongoing battle against al-Shabab.
