MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Al-Shabaab militants have reportedly mobilised a significant number of fighters near the strategic coastal town of Haradhere in Somalia’s Mudug region, raising fears of renewed clashes in an area reclaimed by government forces in 2023, Caasimada Online news website reported on Sunday.
Hundreds of fighters have arrived on the outskirts of the town in recent days, with reinforcements believed to be drawn from the Hiran, Middle Shabelle, and Lower Shabelle regions. Residents in Haradhere have expressed growing concern, warning that fighting could erupt at any moment.
The mobilisation comes amid a broader resurgence by the militant group, which in recent months has reclaimed large areas of territory in central Somalia. Al-Shabaab has re-established control over the entirety of eastern Hiran, reversing gains made by the Somali National Army and allied clan militias since late 2022.
In Middle Shabelle region , the group is said to have seized control of most of the region’s landmass, undoing nearly 90% of the advances secured by government forces over recent years.
Commanders of the Somali National Army stationed in Haradhere say they are closely monitoring militant movements and remain prepared to defend the town. Troops have been deployed along key roads and entry points as part of a broader defensive posture.
Haradhere was retaken from Al-Shabaab in 2023 during a major offensive involving Somali forces and local clan militias. The town, long viewed as a strategic coastal stronghold, had been under militant control for over a decade.
The latest developments come just weeks after Al-Shabaab recaptured the town of Mahas in Hiran, which had been under government control since a joint Somali-Ethiopian offensive more than ten years ago.
The Somali government, with support from international partners, continues to wage a protracted military campaign aimed at dismantling Al-Shabaab’s grip on parts of the country. However, the group’s ability to regroup and reclaim territory underscores the persistent challenges facing efforts to stabilise Somalia.
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