Al-Shabaab Seizes Jubaland Base in Kudhaa Amid Assault Surge
Al-Shabaab, the militant group affiliated with Al-Qaeda, has taken control of the coastal town of Kudhaa in Somalia’s Lower Juba region. This takeover occurred on a Wednesday following a coordinated assault on Jubaland regional forces’ bases. The clash began at dawn with a powerful car bomb, which was soon followed by an infantry attack.
Details of the Attack
Kudhaa is situated approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southeast of the significant port city of Kismayo. During the violent confrontations, Al-Shabaab reported that 113 members of the Jubaland regional forces were killed. The toll also included 43 wounded and 16 captured personnel.
Al-Shabaab’s Claims
- Al-Shabaab released images that allegedly depict the capture of the military base.
- The group also showed images of the deceased soldiers and prisoners, their faces obscured.
Escalating Violence
This attack in Kudhaa is part of a broader surge in assaults by Al-Shabaab against Somali security forces. Just this week, they targeted army bases near the town of Warsheikh. This location is about a two-hour drive northeast from Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.
Casualties in Warsheikh
In Warsheikh, Al-Shabaab claimed to have overrun four army bases. During this operation, they reportedly seized four military vehicles and a significant cache of weapons.
The increase in hostilities reflects ongoing challenges faced by Somali forces in countering Al-Shabaab’s persistent threats. The lack of immediate responses from Jubaland officials regarding the Kudhaa incident highlights the broader struggle for security in the region.
