Heavy fighting that broke out on Tuesday between Somali government forces and the militant group Al-Shabaab in the town of Aboorey, located in the Hiiraan region of central Somalia continued into Wednesday.
According to military sources, the clashes erupted after Al-Shabaab militants entered Aboorey earlier in the week. In response, federal government troops, alongside local allied fighters, launched a counteroffensive to reclaim the town. The government confirmed it had regained control of Aboorey on Wednesday.
However, shortly after retaking the area, Al-Shabaab reportedly launched a counterattack, sparking fierce gun battles that extended into the night. The situation on the ground remained fluid as reinforcements were rushed to the frontline from the nearby Yasooman area to bolster government positions and repel the militant advance.
The battle resulted in multiple fatalities on both sides. Among the dead was Major Asad Osman Afrah, a battalion commander in the elite U.S.-trained Danab special forces unit. Military officials stated that Major Afrah was killed by sniper fire during the offensive.
The Somali National Army has since intensified its operations in the region, aiming to push the militants westward across the Shabelle River and dismantle their presence in Hiiraan.
The situation remains tense as military operations continue. More updates are expected as the conflict unfolds.
Mustaqbal
