Somalia: Al Shabaab militants seize areas near Baidoa

Image

BAIDOA, Somalia-Dozens of Al Shabaab militants have poured into strategic areas near southwestern Baidoa town according to residents. 

Militants Monday seized Gofgadud Shabelow, 30km west of Baidoa right away after Somali government forces and African Union peacekeepers withdrew, Somalia’s Jowhar media has reported.  

Allied troops retreated to their bases on the outskirts of Baidoa, a day after Somali political leaders concluded National Leadership Forum (NLF) in the town. 

No clashes have been reported as militants moved in without resistance, sources added.  

Al Shabaab took back towns and villages in a similar peaceful strategy in the past.  

Officials have not spoken on the reasons behind the relocation of troops from Gofgadud which serves as a key connection between Qansah-Dhere, Ufurow and Diinsoor.

GAROWEONLINE 

Related Articles

Somalia: Puntland Health Minister Inspects Dhahar Hospital During Regional Tour

He later visited Dhahar District Hospital and several other health facilities to assess their operations and the medical services available to residents.

  • Somalia

    21-10-2026

  • 04:40AM

Somalia’s Opposition Alliance to Hold Key Political Talks in Nairobi, Kenya

Neither Deni’s reported absence nor the proposed delegation had been officially confirmed at the time of publication.

  • Somalia

    19-10-2026

  • 09:27AM