MOGADISHU, Somalia – Fierce clashes broke out on Saturday between rival factions of the Al-Shabaab militant group in the town of Masaajid Cali Gaduud, located in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region, according to Somali government officials and local sources.
The infighting reportedly involved militants loyal to two senior commanders within the group, Abdullahi Ali Caraay and Suleyman, amid escalating tensions following a failed operation in the nearby area of Wargaadhi. The Somali Ministry of Defense confirmed the clashes, citing internal disputes over responsibility for the group’s recent setbacks.
“Factions of the Khawarij (Al-Shabaab) clashed today in Masaajid Cali Gaduud, blaming each other for the failure and negligence during the operation in Wargaadhi,” said Sheikh Abuukar Mohamed, spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense.
He noted that both commanders exchanged accusations regarding the unsuccessful offensive, with Suleyman reportedly linked to the notorious Al-Shabaab leader Kabakutukade.
“Everything that begins in injustice ends in injustice. Those who unite in wrongdoing will eventually turn on each other,” Abuukar added, quoting a Somali proverb as he described the factional strife.
The situation in Masaajid Cali Gaduud remains tense, with fighters from both camps maintaining their positions in and around the town, which was recently seized by Al-Shabaab forces.
No statement has yet been released by Al-Shabaab regarding the incident, and the number of casualties remains unconfirmed.
This is not the first time that internal divisions have erupted within the group. Al-Shabaab has previously witnessed similar episodes of infighting, especially following operational failures or leadership disputes.
HORN LIFE
