Mogadishu (Somalistandard) – Allied Somali army forces, along with local militias known as Ma’awisley, are advancing towards the long-time al-Shabab base in Elbur, a town located in the Galgadud region of central Somalia, military officials said on Monday.
Over the weekend, the eastern quarters of Elbur were captured by the advancing forces on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
The operation to retake Elbur began last week with the recapture of areas surrounding the town, but was temporarily delayed earlier this week as officers made strategic plans before proceeding with the push into the town, which is a significant stronghold for al-Shabab.
In anticipation of the battle, hundreds of families have fled the area in the past two days as the Somali army and local militias captured a string of villages surrounding Elbur.
Al-Shabab, an extremist group linked to al-Qaeda, has been active in Somalia for years and has carried out numerous attacks on civilians, government institutions, and African Union peacekeeping forces.
The push to retake Elbur is part of a broader effort by the Somali government and its allies to combat al-Shabab and restore stability to the country.
The Somali army, supported by regional forces and international partners, has been conducting operations to degrade and dismantle al-Shabab’s capabilities and drive them out of their strongholds.
The capture of Elbur would be a significant blow to al-Shabab, as it is considered a key base for their operations in central Somalia.
The situation in Elbur and the surrounding areas remains fluid as the military offensive to drive out militants across Somalia continues.
Copyright ©️ 2023 Somali Standard, All rights reserved.
