Al-Shabaab has reportedly shifted its military focus from parts of South West State to central Somalia, as security sources confirm that the militant group has redeployed fighters from the Bay and Bakool regions to the Hiiraan region, particularly the contested area of Aboorey. This strategic move comes amid an ongoing offensive by Somali government forces, who have been engaged in fierce clashes with the group since April 8.
According to Hiiraan News Agency (HNA), local analysts believe this relocation is part of Al-Shabaab’s plan to consolidate its presence in Hiiraan, possibly easing pressure on the previously blockaded zones in South West State.
Hiiraan News Agency reported claims that the meeting held in the Buush Madiino area of Bay region involved officials from the South West Administration, Al-Shabaab militants, and businessmen from Bay and Bakool regions. This meeting, which lasted for 13 days, led to a formal agreement regarding the opening of trade blockades and the free movement of people and vehicles in the Bay and Bakool regions. Locals also confirms that the meeting was between Alshabab, local clans and Businessmen.
Reports of Blockade Lifting in South West State
Unverified reports circulating on social media and among local communities suggest that Al-Shabaab has lifted its long-standing blockades in the Bay and Bakool regions. However, officials from South West State have downplayed these claims, stating that Al-Shabaab has merely reopened certain access roads to previously isolated areas, including Qansahdhere district.
“It is incorrect to suggest the blockade has been lifted,” a South West security official told a local media platform from Somalia’s South West region. “Al-Shabaab reopened routes to areas it had cut off, but this move appears to be tactical. It’s happening at a time when government forces are mobilizing for a new offensive against the group.”
Aboorey Area: The New Epicenter of Conflict
The Aboorey area has become the latest hotspot in the Somali government’s campaign to dislodge Al-Shabaab from central regions. The clashes in Aboorey—described as some of the most intense in recent months—have reportedly resulted in heavy casualties on both sides, although exact figures remain unconfirmed. Eyewitnesses and local officials describe scenes of ongoing shelling, ambushes, and ground combat. The area’s strategic location has made it a high-priority target for both government forces and the militants.
Security sources say that both Somali troops and Al-Shabaab fighters have received reinforcements, with logistical support and fighters being mobilized from different regions. However, the government side has faced significant operational challenges, particularly delays in aerial support.
“One of the major issues hampering our progress is the slow pace of air support,” a senior security officer involved in the operation told Arlaadi Media. “This has allowed Al-Shabaab to regroup and prolong the fighting.”
Tactical Recalibration or Symbolic Move?
Military analysts believe the group’s repositioning could signal a shift in battlefield priorities, possibly in response to growing pressure from government-led offensives and community resistance in the south.
“Al-Shabaab’s decision to redeploy from Bay and Bakool and reopen certain roads is not a sign of retreat—it’s a tactical recalibration,” said one Mogadishu-based security analyst. “Aboorey is symbolic and strategic, and the group may be betting on stretching government forces thin.”
The Somali government and South West State have both yet to officially comment on the developments in Aboorey or the reported road openings in South West State.
As operations continue, the situation remains fluid. Analysts warn that unless government forces secure consistent logistical support—including timely air cover—progress in areas like Aboorey could remain slow, leaving room for Al-Shabaab to mount counteroffensives elsewhere.