Reports from Baidoa confirmed that large numbers of heavily armed militant group of AL-Shabab have reinforced their presence in Southwest state after the group was badly defeated in the ongoing battle in Middle Shabelle province. Al-Shabab fighters with combat vehicles were seen in many parts of Bay and Bakool regions.
Local residents have said that tension is running high in those areas where Al-Shabab fighters were seen. Somali National Army (SNA) Commanders who are in charge of anti-terrorism operations in Southwest State have said that they received the information that Al-Shabab militant group amassed its fighters and fully aware their movements. The Commanders reiterated that the Somali troops will prevent the militants to enter in these regions.
The Commander of the 60th Division of SNA, General Hassan Isak Omar alias Hassan Baidoa who spoke to the media said that they are fully aware of the presence of Al-Shabab elements in Bay and Bakool regions after the group was badly defeated in the ongoing war in Middle Shabelle region. Hassan said: ” We came to know that Al-shabab militants have reinforced their presence in Bay and Bakool regions after they were defeated in Middle Shabelle region. Al-Shabab is on its last legs.”
He pointed out that the group started to amass fighters in districts under Southwest state. He added that they have full information and will do all they can to stop the terrorist group to set foot in these areas. He said: ” After the militant group failed to takeover Middle Shabelle region, they have fled to Southwest state particularly Bay and Bakool regions and they started movements. We will prevent Al-Shabab’s plan.
The Commander went on to say that the Somali National Army stationed in Southwest state are on a high alert after the militant group amassed fighters in the regions. He further added that it is possible the militant group to conduct attacks against the Somali troops as well as the Somali populace. He said: ” I inform the commanders of the battalions and brigades of the 60th Division of SNA to remain on high alert and to prevent the insurgents.
Tension is reported to be running high and local residents living in Bay and Bakool regions are faced with fear that they will be displaced from their residences due to the possibility of armed confrontations between Somali troops and Al-shabab fighters. Southwest state is among Al-Shabab’s stronghold as far as the war against terrorism is concerned.
