Al-Shabaab Launches Heavy Attack on Yasooman, Government Forces Repel Assault

Al-Shabaab Launches Heavy Attack on Yasooman, Government Forces Repel Assault

HIIRAAN, Somalia (WDN)-  — Al-Shabaab militants launched a fierce assault early Wednesday morning on the town of Yasooman in the Hiiraan region, beginning the attack with a barrage of mortar shells, local officials and residents confirmed.

The assault, which started at dawn, saw Al-Shabaab militants firing multiple mortars into Yasooman before engaging government forces and local self-defense militias, known as Macawisley, in direct combat on the outskirts of the town.

“The militants began their attack with heavy mortar fire targeting our positions,” said a security officer in Yasooman, speaking on condition of anonymity. “Shortly after the shelling, they advanced on foot and initiated intense face-to-face fighting.”

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as both sides exchanged heavy gunfire using various types of weapons. However, government forces, alongside the local militias, were able to hold their ground and repel the attackers.

“We were fully prepared for this assault,” said a member of the Macawisley militia. “Our forces stood firm and managed to push back the militants after several hours of fighting.”

Prior to the ground assault, residents reported hearing the whistling sound of mortar shells landing inside the town. “The bombardment started suddenly. Several shells landed near residential areas before the ground fighting erupted,” said one local resident.

Though the attack was intense, officials have yet to release specific details on casualties. “At this stage, we cannot provide confirmed figures on fatalities or injuries on either side due to the heavy nature of the battle,” the security officer added.

The attack underscores the continued threat posed by Al-Shabaab in central Somalia, even as government forces have made significant territorial gains in recent months.

WardheerNews

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