Al-Shabaab makes advances in central Somalia after troops pull out

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia-based Al-Shabaab has reportedly set a base in the Mudug region, in what locals say could disrupt operations within the area, which has been enjoying peace and stability for a couple of months.

According to reports, the Al-Shabaab militants established a base at Wisil town in Central Somalia, after many months of fighting with government troops who were based within the town which is considered strategic.

The militants are yet to make their entry to the town, but they have set a base a few miles outside, in what could trigger a fierce gunfight with the government troops both from the federal government and those who are close to the Galmadug administration.

About two months ago, the militants engaged government and Galmadug troops in a fierce gunfight, leading to a temporary seizure of the town. However, the militants were forced to pull back after a swift response from government forces.

In separate interviews with the media, residents said they are living in fear as an Al-Shabaab assault on the town could be imminent. Galmudug and Federal forces vacated the area early last month in the build-up for the fighting in Guriel with Ahlu Sunna Waljamaa.

Already, the Al-Shabaab militants are in full control of controls Ba'adweyn and Amara towns after it dislodged government forces in September. Authorities in Wisil are yet to respond to claims from locals who are now living in fear.

The militants are fighting to topple the fragile UN-backed Somalia administration, but concerted efforts by the Somali National Army [SNA] and African Union Mission Forces [AMISOM] have led important battles, pushing the militants out of strategic areas.

For months, the mission troops and SNA soldiers have managed to liberate important towns across Somalia. The Horn of Africa nation is also planning to hold Lower House elections and the presidential polls later on in the coming weeks.

GAROWE ONLINE