Fears over Al-Shabaab attack as Ethiopian forces withdraw from Moqokari, central Somalia

Ethiopian troops within the AMISOM Mission in Somalia vacated a military base in Moqokari locality- 140km to the south east of the capital town of the region, Beladwene stocking fears of possible Al-Shabaab attacks.

The troops left the locality in a convoy of military vehicles at about 7:30 am local time after a one year stay. Somali military remained in the locality, as residents expressed fears over possible Al- Shabab attacks.

“I cannot state why Ethiopian troops abandoned their base here but I can tell you that Somali Military forces are here, and we can defend ourselves with any possible attack from the enemy,” Moqokari commissioner, Hassan Makaraan, told Goobjoog News shortly after Ethiopian troop’s withdrawal.

Our correspondent in the area said the Commissioner is suspected to have fled the locality after the interview owing to fears Al-Shabaab could launch attacks following the troops withdrawal.

Locals say the Somali military in the area may not be able to defend the area from Al-Shabaab attacks.

Al-Shabaab was pushed from Moqokari locality in 2015 when the Ethiopian forces set their base there.