Monday August 18, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) – Four Al-Shabaab militants surrendered to
the Southwest State branch of Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security
Agency (NISA) in Hudur, the capital of Bakool region, on Monday.
The defectors, who were members of the group’s so-called
“brigades,” said they could no longer endure the harsh conditions of life in
the bush under Al-Shabaab.
Security forces in Bakool have recently intensified
operations under the campaign “Common Storm,” which has increased pressure on
militants in the area and prompted defections to the government.
This marks the second group of four Al-Shabaab members to
surrender to NISA in Southwest state in less than a week. On Saturday, four
young men surrendered in Baidoa, citing similar reasons, including harsh
conditions in the bush, ongoing clashes with Somali National Army forces, and
sustained airstrikes.
Federal government officials said the defectors will be
transferred to rehabilitation centers, where they will undergo reintegration
programs before rejoining their communities and resuming their education.