Saturday July 12, 2025
Mahas (HOL) — Hundreds of troops have arrived in Mahaas district, Hiiraan region, in recent hours as large-scale military operations intensify against the Al-Shabaab militant group.
The newly deployed forces, primarily from Guriceel and Matabaan districts in the Hiiraan and Galgaduud regions, are expected to bolster ongoing efforts to reclaim Moqokori district, which was recently seized by Al-Shabaab after years under government control.
“We have come here to repay the sacrifice made by the Hawadle in 2008 during the liberation of Guriceel and Dhusamareb. We are ready to die alongside them—it is a duty of brotherhood,” the officer said.
Footage circulating on social media showed a convoy of military vehicles being warmly received by Mahaas residents, many of whom cheered the arriving troops.
The reinforcements are expected to play a key role in the anticipated assault to retake Moqokori, a strategic town in Hiiraan that links several districts across the region. Local militia groups and federal forces are reportedly finalizing preparations for the offensive.
Al-Shabaab militants seized Moqokori several weeks ago, following internal disputes among local leaders and a temporary withdrawal of government forces.
The upcoming operation is viewed as critical in the ongoing struggle to eliminate Al-Shabaab from central Somalia and restore stability in the region.