- Al Shabaab militants have taken control of Tardo town in Hiiran region, Somalia.
- The town links several bigger centres and its fall could open new routes for the group.
- Government-allied local fighters were forced out after intense clashes.
- At least 12,500 families have fled Tardo and nearby Muqokori.
- Somali forces and local militias are preparing to launch a counteroffensive.
- Tensions have risen as al Shabaab moves closer to other strategic areas.
The militant group Al Shabaab has taken over Tardo, a key town in central Somalia’s Hiiran region, according to the military. The town was captured on Sunday after government-aligned clan militias were pushed out by the armed fighters.
Tardo is considered important because it connects to larger towns in the region. Military officer Major Mohamed Abdullahi said the group is now pushing forward into new areas.
After losing Tardo, Somali troops and local forces known as Macwiisleey are regrouping. According to Abdullahi, about 100 national soldiers have joined the local fighters as plans for a counterattack begin.
“We are discussing with the people of Hiiran how to retake the towns from Al Shabaab,” he said.
This renewed militant push adds pressure on a region already shaken by repeated attacks. Al Shabaab has been gaining ground since earlier this year, even reaching villages close to Mogadishu before the army reclaimed them.
Dahir Amin, a regional lawmaker, confirmed the fall of both Tardo and Muqokori, saying the situation is alarming. He said at least 12,500 families have fled the area in fear of the group’s harsh rule and ongoing fighting.
Local elders and clan fighters also confirmed the takeover and warned that more towns could fall if action is not taken quickly.
Al Shabaab has been fighting to overthrow Somalia’s government since 2007. They want to impose their strict version of Islamic law and have often targeted both civilians and security forces.
With Tardo now under their control, eyes are on what the next move will be—and how quickly the Somali forces can respond.
