The Somali National Army (SNA) is currently making cautious progress towards Mahaas district in Hiiraan province in order to drive out AL-Shabab fighters who have taken control of the district. Mahaas is a strategically important town located in the border between Hiiraan and Galguduud regions, which was seized by Al-Shabab on July 27, 2025 after a large-scale offensive. On Saturday, the Danab Command announced that units of the Danab Special Forces, specifically the 27th Division of the SNA, had reached settlements previously occupied by Al-Shabab in Mahaas district. The statement issued by the Danab Command stated that planned operations were carried out in the settlements of Isgoyska Osman Indhoole, Qoryo-qaad, Ganarubad, Ina Baale, Cadiimo, Hamiino, and Lixley. It also mentioned that the Danab Commandos had successfully taken control of these settlements, ensured security, and conducted search operations to eliminate any remaining Al-Shabab fighters. The objective of the operation was to liberate the settlements where Al-Shabab had committed atrocities against the local population, restore law and order, and maintain security with the help of the Somali troops and the cooperation of the locals. The Danab Commandos expressed their gratitude to the Mahaas district community for their cooperation and urged them to continue supporting the troops. The local defense forces, known as Ma’awisley, are also participating in the operations and assisting the Somali troops in their fight against Al-Shabab.
