#Somalia | Al-Shabab militants Carried Out Deadly Ambush on Somalia Government Forces Along Afgooye–Wanla-Weyn Road

At least nine soldiers and officers from Somalia’s federal forces, including a senior military commander, were killed and dozens more wounded following a series of heavy Al-Shabab attacks involving roadside explosions yesterday along the road connecting Afgooye and Wanla-Weyn in Lower Shabeelle yesterday. Among those killed was Yaxye Cali Magan, a senior officer who served as both a unit commander and chief of staff. A military vehicle was also completely destroyed by the explosion.

The targeted troops had been dispatched from Mogadisho as part of a military offensive towards Buurhakaba when they were ambushed by the militants. Many wounded soldiers were transported to Mogadisho yesterday and today.
Reinforcements expected from other positions in Lower Shabeelle failed to arrive after military officers refused to send additional troops over fears of further roadside explosives.

— Uubaale News (@CivicPulseh6nc) October 23, 2026