Civilian Protection Forces in Galgudud province in collaboration with Ahlu Sunna troops in Central provinces, particularly those stationed in Bahdo District, who are organized in combating against Al-Shabab militants successfully took control of Xinlabi settlement in Mudug province on Sunday afternoon. The troops with combat vehicles departed from Bahdo District in Galgudud province, and later crossed the border between the two provinces before taking control of Xinlabi. Xinlabi is a strategic area for Al-Shabab militants when you look at it from a strategic prospective while they were maintaining security in the areas they hold in Southern parts of Mudug region such as Qodqod, Cammaara and Caad.
Mr. Ahmed Salaad Sheikh Warsame who is among the Commanders leading the troops that successfully took control of the settlement, further pledged that Al-Shabab militants will not remain in the area following up on what happened in 2024. Somali military forces along with Galmudug Dervish forces removed Al-Shabab militants from the settlement in 2023, although the allied forces later retreated from the area in 2024, and subsequently paved the way for the return of Al-Shabab militants to the area. He highlighted that the troops are carrying out operations which are aimed to flash out Al-Shabab militants from areas under their control in Galmudug state. He said, “We are hopeful that we will successfully secure the remaining parts of Galmudug, God willing. We represent both Galmudug state and the Federal Government, and we operate under the authority of both in terms of security, operational capabilities, morale, and support.”
He promised that the troops will remain on the frontlines, speaking to the media in Xinlabi. He stated, “We hope to remain on the frontlines against the enemy that has been maiming the people, God willing.” In parts of Galgudud and Mudug provinces, security forces are conducting operations to counter Al-Shabab’s attempts to threaten the stability of Galmudug during the election period. There is a possibility that the troops will intensify the operations within the coming weeks, in order to prevent Al-Shabab’s threats against the security. Al-Shabab remains as the only security challenge that can threaten the stability in Galmudug during the election period. Preparations are underway in Galmudug for holding the local council and parliamentary elections scheduled to take place on July 25, 2026. At least two hundred, fifteen thousand, eight hundred and sixty people have officially registered to cast their votes on Election Day in order to elect Local Councilors and Members of the Parliament in Galmudug state.
