At least six Somali soldiers and their driver were killed in a militia ambush on Thursday in the El-Baraf district of Middle Shabelle region. Two soldiers managed to escape the attack, which is believed to be linked to ongoing clan conflicts.
The soldiers, reportedly on leave and traveling to their families in the Hiiraan region, were ambushed by militia fighters. Witnesses stated that the victims, all from the Hawadle clan, were executed with gunshots to the head, in what appears to be a revenge killing.
The attack stems from unresolved disputes between the Hawadle and Abgaal clans, which have fueled intermittent violence along the border of Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions. Previous peace efforts have failed to ease tensions, leaving the area vulnerable to further clashes.
Local residents fear the incident could reignite a broader conflict, as hostilities between the two clans remain high. Both the federal government and the Hirshabelle administration have yet to address the incident or provide updates on potential actions to prevent further violence.