Monday April 7, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali government forces, backed by local clan militias, have taken full control of the Ruunirgood district in the Middle Shabelle region on Monday, marking a significant gain in the ongoing offensive against al-Shabaab militants.
In a statement, the Federal Government of Somalia said security operations are underway in and around the district to secure the area and pursue fleeing militants.
"The forces, in collaboration with local residents, began operations early this morning to destroy the hideouts of the Khawarij, whose escape is currently being monitored," the statement said.
The successful operation in Ruunirgood comes amid intensified efforts by the Somali National Army (SNA) and allied forces across Hirshabelle and Galmudug states, following an uptick in al-Shabaab attacks targeting military bases and the capital, Mogadishu.
Ruunirgood has been a strategic stronghold for al-Shabaab in the Middle Shabelle region and its recapture represents a tactical blow to the group's presence in central Somalia.
Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-affiliated group designated as a terrorist organization by Somalia, the United States, and the United Nations, has waged a deadly insurgency for over 15 years, aiming to overthrow Somalia's federal government and impose its strict interpretation of Islamic law.