Al-Shabaab in Hiran (File Photo)
The internal power struggles between al-Shabaab officials seems to be growing by the day and today’s clashes support that theory. At least two al-Shabaab fighters were killed in Hees village, a few kilometers from Hiraan’s provincial capital of Beledweyne, after fighting among the group broke out Sunday afternoon.
Reports indicate that the incident took place after two commanders within the group had an argument after one of them ordered the militia to withdraw from the village and head to another area that needed reinforcement. The second commander refused, resulting in the gunfight.
“Residents in and around the village of Hees told me the incident happened and at least two fighters from the group have been killed and others were wounded,” a local journalist in Beledweyne who sought anonymity told Somalia Report.
According to the journalist infighting between al-Shabaab fighters has now become something of a daily routine since the group withdrew its forces from the capital Mogadishu earlier this month.
“Similar incidents have been reported in the last few weeks, so we are now seeing al-Shabaab woes continuing,” he added.
Al-Shabaab officials were not immediately available to respond but are expected to make comments that Somalia Report will post accordingly.
ASWJ and al-Shabaab Clash
Meanwhile the pro-government Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama (ASWJ) militia clashed with al-Shabaab fighters in the regional border village of Bakura between Galgaduud and Hiraan regions, claiming the lives of at least 7 people and injuring several more.
Local media in Beledweyne reported that the number of killed might reach as high as 10, according to Mahaas district hospital officials.
This follows after al-Shabaab fighters were confronted by ASWJ in Bakura village which is approximately 16 kilometers away from Mahaas district of Beledweyne region.
The situation is reportedly calm now but the residents of the area are not certain of what may follow in the coming days as both groups are known for launching counter attacks at any given time.