Somalia forces recapture strategic al-Shabab stronghold in central region

The Federal government of Somalia confirmed that the National Army forces regained full control of the al-Shabab stronghold El Garas in the central state of Galgaduud as the government intensified its operations against Alshabab.

The Ministry of information noted that the removal of al-Shabab from El Garas Town is significant to the ongoing offensive operation against the group in the area and the army is currently conducting a clearance operation in the town.

However, the Government said Mohamed Mohamud Ahmed, a member of the Galmudug Parliament, and Abdullahi Ibrahim Shaiye, a member of the Dhusamareb Local Council, were killed and others wounded in a landmine blast in the area during the operation to liberate the area.

Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the latest attack but did not comment on the fall of their strategic location into government control.

The recapture of El Garas Town came a day after a deadly attack at a military base in Awdheegle Town in southern Somalia, where the SNA said it killed more than 20 al-Shabab militants.