Killing of Seven Soldiers in Central Somalia Highlights Escalating Clan Conflicts

In a tragic incident that underscores the growing security challenges in Somalia, seven soldiers from the Somali National Army (SNA) were killed in an ambush in El baraf town in the Middle Shabelle region, about 140 Kilometers north Mogadishu on December 26, 2024. The attack, reportedly linked to inter-clan tensions, has drawn national outrage and international concern.

The soldiers, returning from operations in elbaraf town, were intercepted by unidentified assailants on their way to Hiiraan. Despite orders to surrender, the soldiers were subsequently executed. The Somali Federal Government and the Hirshabeelle regional administration have condemned the attack and pledged swift action.

The Commander of Hirshabeelle Police, Hassan Dhisow Hassan, vowed to apprehend the perpetrators, emphasizing the administration's commitment to justice. "We are ready to cooperate with the federal government to bring those responsible to justice," he stated.

The fallout from the attack has already begun. Hirshabelle's Minister of Interior announced the suspension of elbaraf's town commissioner, Yusuf Hassan Hurshoow, citing negligence in his duties during the incident. Meanwhile, Somalia's Defense Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, promised that the culprits would be apprehended within 48 hours, though no arrests had been reported by the deadline.