Al-Shabaab set up base in Mudug worries local residents

Al-Shabaab militants have reportedly set up a base in the outskirts of Wisil Town in the Mudug region, raising fears the group is planning to capture the town.

In September, local sources said the militant group had built camps in the area after a deadly firefight with Galmudug and federal government forces. Al-Shabaab failed to seize the town after they were pushed back.

Residents told the media they are living in fear as an Al-Shabaab assault on the town could be imminent.

Galmudug and Federal forces vacated the area early last month in the build-up for the fighting in Guriel with Ahlu Sunna Waljamaa.

Al-Shabaab now controls Ba’adweyn and Amara towns after it dislodged government forces in September.

There was no immediate comment from local authorities in Wisil.