MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Heavy fighting continued Monday for a fifth straight day between Somali government forces and Al-Shabaab militants near the central town of Moqokori, officials and local sources said.
The militant group, which seized the nearby town of El Hareeri last week, is attempting to push deeper into eastern Hiran region, prompting government troops and allied clan militias to launch repeated counterattacks. However, none of the offensives have succeeded in retaking lost ground.
Al-Shabaab is sending more reinforcements every day, local security officials said, adding that they are aiming to capture Moqokori and Mahas towns.
Ali Jayte, a senior militia coordinator, warned the frontlines could collapse unless President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud intervenes. He accused leaders of the Hirshabelle regional state of obstructing military operations.
The insurgents have stepped up operations in central Somalia, despite airstrikes and resistance from government troops and allied militias.
Contact us: info@somaliguardian.com
