A press release from the Federal Government of Somalia has given more details about the attack by the Al-Shabaab group early this morning in the Balcad district of the Middle Shabelle region.
The group’s attack on Balcad district started with heavy explosions followed by a face-to-face battle between Al-Shabaab and the government forces.
The news from the government of Somalia said that the attack was prevented and thwarted by the government forces, and the group’s explosions took place in an open space.
“The brave soldiers went against that plot, and the enemy’s car, which was disguised as a passenger car, exploded in a deserted place, intending to harm the people. Houses belonging to civilians were destroyed in the foiled explosion, and there were no casualties among civilians, apart from minor injuries sustained by three soldiers who foiled the conspiracy of the group,” said the government’s press release.
On the other hand, the Commander of the Ground Forces of the Somali National Army, General Dayah Abdi Abdulle, who held a press conference for the media, said that the attack this morning caused damage to the Al-Shabaab group, and that nothing happened as the group wanted.
“The plot of the Khawarij organized during the holy month and came to Balcad district this morning was thwarted and the army prevented them and worshiped them,” said Commander Dayah Abdi Abdulle.
The commander also called on the youth who are fighting alongside the Al-Shabaab group that the government should still give them a chance of amnesty so that they can surrender.
“You wronged Khawarij youths, I think you have the opportunity that the government has given you to surrender to your people and the government that needs you and take advantage of it,” said Dayah commander Abdi Abdulle.
Finally, the attack that took place this morning in Balcad District confirmed that 11 members of the Al Shabaab who attacked the district were killed, as confirmed by the district governor Qasim Furdug.
