Reports from the Middle Shabelle Region indicate that intense fighting broke out in the Jabad Godane settlement after the militant group Al-Shabab launched an attack on military bases established by the Somali National Army (SNA) at the front gate of the settlement. Jabad Godane is located between the Warsheikh and Hawadley settlements, which are both under the administration of Bal’ad district. The group took control of the settlement on December 22 without engaging in any skirmishes with Somalia’s security forces. The Somali Army had set up military bases near the settlement, from which the militant group launched their attack, beginning with explosions. Reports suggest that the two sides engaged in numerous skirmishes and used heavy weapons. While initial reports indicated that Al-Shabab had pushed back the Somali Army, they were later forced to retreat. It is now reported that the Somali National Army has made significant advancements and has reached the area where the group launched their assault. The fighting involved Danab Special Elite Forces, Gorgor, and units of the Somali National Army, specifically the 3rd Brigade and the 12th Division. It appears that the SNA is attempting to eliminate Al-Shabab’s presence in Jabad Godane, with support from international partners’ warplanes. The group also took control of the settlements of Sheikh-Yaalo and Alanley, which are under the administration of Warsheikh district, in an attempt to cut off the coastal route that links the Middle Shabelle region to Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu. However, the SNA has successfully foiled their attempts to expand their presence in this strategic coastal route. The fighting resulted in heavy casualties, including deaths and injuries on both sides, although the exact number is unknown. Al-Shabab claimed in a statement that their fighters killed many combat soldiers and seized vehicles, weapons, and ammunition. However, photos shared with the media show dozens of Al-Shabab bodies scattered on the battlefield. On the other hand, the Ministry of Defense of Somalia’s Federal Government stated in a press release that their security forces successfully foiled the attack launched by the group on the settlement early on Sunday morning. The government has confirmed that their forces are in full control of the settlement
