Landmine blast kills one, injures two in central Somalia

DDM News

A deadly landmine explosion struck Hawaadley town in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region, killing one militia member and injuring two others.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the blast targeted a vehicle transporting members of the Macawiisley militia, a local force battling the Al-Shabaab insurgency.

The explosion occurred late last night, amid fierce clashes between Macawiisley fighters and Al-Shabaab militants in the area.

No group has claimed responsibility for the landmine attack, but suspicion falls heavily on the extremist group Al-Shabaab.

Sources confirmed that the injured officers are receiving medical treatment, though their conditions remain undisclosed.

The Macawiisley militia has been instrumental in recent offensives that reclaimed several towns in the Middle Shabelle region.

These operations are part of a broader campaign to liberate Aadan Yabaal, a district approximately 220 kilometers north of Mogadishu.

Al-Shabaab had seized Aadan Yabaal following intense fighting with government troops, tightening their grip on the region.

Macawiisley forces are now pushing to retake the district, viewed as strategically important for regional stability and counterterrorism.

The blast in Hawaadley underscores the persistent dangers militia and government forces face while combating the insurgent threat.

Macawiisley fighters, mostly drawn from local communities, are known for their resilience and effectiveness against the extremist group.

Despite territorial gains, such attacks reveal ongoing gaps in mine detection, intelligence coordination, and battlefield logistics.

Local leaders have condemned the blast and called for stronger support for the militia from the federal government.

Security experts say landmines remain a preferred tactic by Al-Shabaab to slow the advance of pro-government forces.

The Somali government has not yet released an official statement on the Hawaadley incident.

International observers continue to monitor the situation, expressing concern over the rising casualty toll from landmine explosions.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) will provide updates as more information becomes available from authorities and field sources.

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