Build-up for more offensives underway in Galmudug as security chiefs gather

GOOBJOOG NEWS|DHUSAMAREB: Senior state and federal security officials are meeting in Dhusamareb to strategise on the resumption of a large-scale offensive against Al-Shabaab in areas still under the group’s control ahead of the second phase which moves southwards of the country.

Galmudug state president Ahmed Qoorqoor opened the meeting Tuesday night attended by National Intelligence and Security Agency Director-General Mahad Salad alongside other top officials.

Sources close to the talks say Qoorqoor said plans were underway to liberate remaining areas, especially in the east of Galgadud adding that military offensives were already underway to retake the strategic Elbur district which has been under the grip of Al-Shabaab for a long time.

Over 300 state forces and clan militia gathered last week on the outskirts of Guriel town ahead of an operation there. The Federal Government has deployed most of its forces in the East of Galgaduud region to liberate Elbur and the surrounding areas, especially Wabho Diri and Galgareeri both of which have been under Al-Shabaab for 15 years.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to travel to Dhusamareb soon as part of efforts to bolster the war against Al-Shabaab there.