Sunday April 20, 2025
FILE
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali government forces came under heavy attack late Saturday when Al-Shabaab militants launched a coordinated assault on military positions in Elasha Biyaha, a key area southwest of Mogadishu. The fighting left multiple casualties, although the official death toll remains unconfirmed.
The attack began with explosions, followed by an intense firefight between militants and troops from the Somali National Army (SNA) and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). Residents reported heavy gunfire lasting for hours, with both sides using a range of weaponry in close combat.
Elasha Biyaha, located about 15 kilometres from Mogadishu, has frequently been a flashpoint due to its strategic location between the capital and militant strongholds in southern Somalia. Last month, sightings of Al-Shabaab fighters in and around the Elasha Biyaha corridor have raised concerns among residents.
Federal authorities have released no official statement regarding the number of casualties or damage from the attack.
The attack marks the latest in a string of escalating Al-Shabaab offensives in southern and central Somalia, where the group has intensified attacks on military outposts. The assault comes as Somali and African Union forces continue a nationwide campaign aimed at dismantling Al-Shabaab's territorial control.
Despite military gains in regions such as Galgaduud and Hiiraan, the group remains capable of executing complex attacks, particularly near the capital.