Intense clashes are unfolding in central Somalia as al-Shabab militants launch an assault on military bases in the Mudug region. Witnesses reported hearing heavy gunfire and explosions during the early hours of Wednesday.
The attack commenced with a suicide bombing targeting government special forces. Galmudug Security Minister Mohamed Abdi Aden confirmed ongoing battles between troops and militants in Aad village, where the military bases are situated.
According to the Somali National News Agency (Sonna), the army, with local assistance, successfully repelled the attack, resulting in substantial losses for the terrorists. However, al-Shabab claims to have captured five military bases and inflicted casualties on numerous soldiers.
Since August 2022, Somali federal forces have been actively engaged in a significant offensive against the al-Qaeda-linked group. The situation remains fluid as the conflict continues to unfold.