Somalia troops praised for the capture of key towns from Al-Shabaab

BBC/ED HABERSHON

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somali leaders could not hide their joy after the Somali National Army [SNA] and local militia captured two strategic towns from the hands of Al-Shabaab, marking the milestone in the fight against the militants who control large swathes of the rural central and southern part of the country.

The military, who have been in the charm offensive, managed to liberate Haradhere town in Galgaduud and the strategic town of Gal'ad, which have been strategic for Al-Shabaab. The towns also help the militants collect revenue which is used to facilitate their activities.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre praised the military for the "bravery" and "sacrifices" they have made for the country in the last six months across all frontlines. The PM did not hesitate to laud locals who have taken arms against the militants.

For former HirShabelle President Mohamed Abdi Waare, the victory against the militants is historic, terming it "a very big deal". Previously, the former president has been on the frontline praising senior government officials who have sacrificed their time to join the military on the ground.

"It was expected for the last few weeks. But the liberation of Harardheere is still a very big deal. It was the biggest stronghold in the Central Regions and has developed, over the years an aura of invincibility of almost mythical proportions. This victory is a watershed event," he said in a tweet.

"I commend the SNA and all the civil defense forces that took part in liberating much of Hirshabelle and Galmudug from the menace of Al Shabab. The takeover of Xarardhere is Historic and has also special significance. Hope the rest of the country will follow soon," added Omar Sharmarke, former Somali PM.

Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur announced the good news early on Monday morning while recognizing the importance of the two towns to the militants. He said the troops were leading operations to liberate the two towns.

“Today, it’s a big day for the Somali people, it’s a victory for the Somalis,” Nur said. “We have succeeded in taking control of Galcad and Harardhere districts.”

The militants had displaced thousands of civilians from the two towns having learned that the Somali National Army and the local militia were busy arriving. Usually, the militants strive hard to control locals from interacting with members of the army, and in most cases, they displace them when about to lose control of strategic towns.

GAROWE ONLINE