Moderate Islamist group abandons last stronghold in Somalia 

Galmudug information ministry said that the combined troops are in full control of Guriel, where both sides engaged in heavy battles that left at least 120 people, mostly soldiers dead while hundreds wounded.

News Keydmedia Online
27 October 2021

GURIEL, Somalia – The moderate Islamist group Ahlu Sunna Waljama’a has abandoned its last major stronghold of Guriel in central Somalia after an assault by Somali troops along with Galmudug soldiers.

According to officials, the Sufi loyalists pulled out of their bases late Tuesday under the cover of darkness after the opposing forces camped for 4 days in the city located 450 km north of Mogadishu.

Galmudug information ministry said that the combined troops are in full control of Guriel, where both sides engaged in heavy battles that left at least 120 people, mostly soldiers dead while hundreds wounded.

ASWJ put up resistance during the offensive but later accepted a ceasefire deal that led to their retreat to a nearby village called Godwiil, where they could make mobilization for a counter-attack on Guriel.

The group leaders have been controlling most parts of Galmudug, including its capital Dhusamareb and Guriel for over 10 years until they were removed from power by Somali government forces in early 2020.

Galmudug is facing political and security challenges that derail the rebuilding efforts and the upcoming Lower House election in Somalia that saw delays in the schedule due to Farmajo’s leadership failure.

KEYDMEDIA English