Awdhegle, Lower Shabelle – Somali National Army (SNA) troops on Saturday assumed full control of Awdhegle town in Lower Shabelle after Al-Shabaab militants withdrew without offering resistance, marking another strategic gain for government forces in South West State.
Security officials confirmed that government troops entered the agricultural settlement earlier in the day, following reports that extremist fighters had vacated their positions overnight. No clashes or casualties were reported during the takeover.
Regional Governor Ibrahim Aden Najah, who visited the town shortly after its recapture, said the government is focused on stabilising recently recovered areas and preventing militant regrouping. He emphasized that the operation was part of a broader push to secure key districts long affected by insurgency.
“Our objective is not just to take territory but to restore lasting peace and ensure that residents live without fear,” Najah stated during his tour.
He added that plans are underway to reestablish local administration, reopen essential services and facilitate the return of displaced families.
Awdhegle, located along the Shabelle River, has long been a strategic stronghold for Al-Shabaab due to its fertile farmlands and road networks connecting other populated areas. Its recapture is viewed as an important step in weakening the group’s logistical operations in the region.
Local elders and community leaders expressed cautious optimism, calling for rapid deployment of police forces and humanitarian assistance to support civilians who have endured years of insecurity.
Military officials say additional operations are ongoing to secure nearby villages and prevent potential counterattacks, as government forces continue to expand control across rural parts of southern Somalia.