Al-Shabab Fighters have Taken Control of a Central Somali Town, Forcing Thousands to Flee

By Redaction ARPS Media with Agencies

Al-Shabab insurgents have taken control of Tardo in Somalia’s Hiiran region, pushing out government-backed clan fighters.

This takeover has led to the displacement of at least 12,500 families from Tardo and nearby Muqokori. In response, around 100 Somali soldiers have been deployed to support a counterattack by local clan fighters.

Al-Shabab, which has been active in Somalia since 2007 and is linked to al-Qaeda, aims to establish a rule based on Sharia law.

Their activities have intensified in the Hiiran region this year, previously advancing close to Mogadishu before being repelled by Somali forces.