By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, 22 October 2025 — Somali Security Forces repelled an attempted attack by al-Shabaab militants on the outskirts of Hudur, the capital of Bakool region, on Tuesday night, killing at least 10 militants.
According to Somali National Army (SNA) Radio, the operation took place about eight kilometres from Hudur, where intelligence indicated that al-Shabaab fighters were preparing an assault on the district.
The military said more than 10 militants were killed in the clash, and several weapons were recovered, including a BKM machine gun and AK-47 rifles.
Colonel Mohamed Yaris, Commander of the Somali National Army’s 60th Division, told military media that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to stabilize Bakool region and dismantle al-Shabaab’s operational networks.
Meanwhile, South West State’s Minister of Internal Security, Hassan Abduqadir Mohamed, praised the cooperation between Somali Security Forces and local residents, describing it as “an effective partnership between the community and the security forces in defending peace and stability.”
No independent sources have yet verified the reported casualties.
Hudur, the administrative capital of Bakool region, has been a frequent target of Al-Shabaab attacks in recent years. The town, located about 420 kilometers northwest of Mogadishu, serves as a key logistics hub for Somali National Army operations in South West State.
