Saturday October 16, 2021
Dhusamareb (HOL) - Ahlu Sunna Waljama'a (ASWJ) forces held a military parade on Saturday in the town of Guriel in the Galgadud region, where they took control a few weeks ago.
The exercise was in direct response to media reports that the group had withdrawn from Guriel due to fears of an incoming attack from Galmudug regional forces and federal government forces.
Ahlu Sunna officials told the media that they have no fear of an attack on the town of Guri El, saying they are ready to defend their territory.
"In Guriel, we are telling people that it is safe. Guriel is the city that started the war against Alshabab. It is the city where the commemoration of the martyrs of Ahlu Sunna was held. It is the city we want to start our clean-up operation against Al-Shabaab," said the Ahlu Sunna official.
ASWJ Officials said they were saddened by the displacement of people on social media and told residents that they did not need to flee.
However, about 500 families have been displaced from Guriel in recent weeks due to the fighting. Many have relocated to the outskirts of the town, about 5km from Guriel centre.
One resident said that ASWJ's latest show of military strength led to another influx of displacement, primarily among women and children. The same source noted that some residents have begun constructing defensive trenches around their homes.
The families are fearful of the federal government and Galmudug's incursions into Guriel as troops approach the town of Guriel. At the same time, Ahlu Sunna prepares to defend itself against the impending attack.