Mogadishu (Raxanreeb Online) – Somalia’s State Minister of Defense, Omar Ali Abdi, has spoken about the recent security developments in the country, particularly the brief seizure of Balcad district in the Middle Shabelle region by Al-Shabaab militants.

Speaking candidly, Minister Abdi acknowledged that Al-Shabaab had managed to take control of Balcad but emphasized that their hold on the town was short-lived. He described the incident as an unfortunate lapse but assured that lessons had been learned and that security forces were taking decisive action to prevent such occurrences in the future.

He also highlighted the intensified military operations being carried out by the Somali National Army (SNA) to combat Al-Shabaab, stressing that government forces have since reclaimed significant territory. However, he pointed out a disparity in media coverage, noting that while Al-Shabaab’s momentary capture of Balcad received widespread attention, the military’s successful offensives and territorial gains have not been equally reported.

Minister Abdi reassured the public that the Somali government remains committed to strengthening national security, intensifying counter-terrorism efforts, and ensuring that such incidents do not undermine the progress being made in stabilizing the country.