By Horn Africa News
Mahas – Intense fighting is currently underway on the outskirts of Mahas district in central Somalia’s Hiiraan region, as Somali government forces and allied local fighters known as Ma’awisley engage in heavy clashes with the militant group Al-Shabaab.
The battle, which erupted in the Ceelgorof area—situated between Mahas and Wabho—was initiated by an Al-Shabaab assault. Somali National Army (SNA) units and local militia forces stationed in the area swiftly responded, repelling the attackers in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
Reports from the ground confirm that Al-Shabaab fighters regrouped shortly after their initial setback and launched a renewed offensive. The ongoing battle involves the use of various types of weaponry, indicating the scale and intensity of the confrontation.
Military officials claim several Al-Shabaab fighters, including key field commanders, have been killed during the ongoing operation. Reinforcements have been dispatched to the frontline to support government and allied forces defending Maxaas.
This clash follows a government-led offensive on Thursday, in which security forces targeted Al-Shabaab operatives who were reportedly preparing an attack in Ceelgorof. That operation dealt a significant blow to the group and disrupted its plans.
A statement released by the Somali government described the current campaign as a “major offensive against the militants hiding in the Galgaduud region. “A large-scale operation is ongoing in Elgorof, where extremists were taking cover,” the statement noted.
Al-Shabaab’s recent resurgence comes after the group captured the town of Moqokori in Hiiraan, previously under the protection of local clan militia forces known as Macawiisley. In response, both the Galgadud and Hiiraan regions have intensified mobilization and anti-insurgency operations in recent days.
The situation in Mahas remains tense as the fighting continues, with the Somali government vowing to maintain pressure on the militants and reclaim control over key territories in central Somalia.
