MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Al-Shabaab militants on Monday seized control of the strategic town of Moqokori in central Somalia following intense clashes with government troops and allied clan militias.
The town, located in the Hiran region of Hirshabelle state, was among the first liberated by Somali forces during a major offensive launched in the summer of 2022. Its fall marks a significant setback for the federal government’s campaign to reclaim territory from the al-Qaeda-linked group.
Somali Member of Parliament Abdimalik Abdalla, who hails from Moqokori, confirmed the loss of the town. He criticized the federal government for failing to send reinforcements or even basic supplies like water tankers, which he said left local defenders vulnerable to the insurgent assault.
Al-Shabaab claimed capturing Moqokori and released images showing its fighters patrolling its streets. In a statement, the group claimed it killed 47 government soldiers and wounded dozens more during the fighting.
Local sources report that the militants are now advancing towards Mahas, one of the region’s largest and most strategic towns. Mahas has remained under government control for over a decade and was previously garrisoned by Ethiopian troops until their withdrawal last year.
Contact us: info@somaliguardian.com
