Units of Somalia’s National Army set out from Mogadishu, Somalia’s capital by land and reached the frontlines in the eastern part of Hiiraan region.
These troops were equipped with combat vehicles and were deployed there to reinforce other Somali military units and local defense forces tasked with fighting Al-Shabab militants.
Somalia’s National Army Command is devising a plan for troops to retake the Teedaan area, which they had withdrawn from on the 2nd of this month—at which the Al-Shabab seized control of it.
Reports indicate that General Ibrahim Mohamed Mohamud, the Army Chief, is spearheading a major offensive to ensure the security and the stability in the eastern part of Hiiraan region.
Reports further indicate that large numbers of Al-Shabab militants have been sighted in areas between the districts of Mahaas and Teedaan, and that the group established defense positions in the open areas surrounding Teedaan.
Teedaan is a strategic area connecting the towns of Matabaan, Beledweyne, and Mahaas, and is vital for peace and trade in the Hiiraan and Galguduud regions.
Al-Shabab is attempting to retain control of Teedaan to avoid jeopardizing their presence in Mahaaas and Moqokori—two major towns they currently hold in the eastern part of Hiiraan region.
Al-Shabab is aware that if Teedaan is captured from them, opposing forces could cut off reinforcements and supply lines to Mahaas and Moqokori.
Both sides attach great importance to controlling Teedaan, and there are fears that heavy fighting could erupt there.
