Hilowle Gaab attack

Hilowle Gaab attack
Part of Somali Civil War (2009–present)
Date January 6, 2023 Location Hilowle Gaab, Somalia Result al-Shabaab tactical victory Somali strategic victory
Belligerents
Somalia Ma'awisley	al-Shabaab
Casualties and losses
7+ killed and injured (per Somalia) 31 killed (per al-Shabaab)	Unknown

On January 6, 2023, al-Shabaab militants attacked the town of Hilowle Gaab, which had recently been recaptured by Somali forces. Over 20 people were killed in the attack, including several Somali commanders.

Prelude[edit]

Somali forces launched an offensive against al-Shabaab in late 2022, with the aid of the Ma'awisley militia.^[1] The offensive captured several key towns and villages in Hirshabelle State, including Hilowle Gaab, which had been under al-Shabaab control for years prior.^[1] In late 2022, the Somali military captured Runirgod, the last major al-Shabaab stronghold in the region.^[1] That same week, Hilowle Gaab was captured.^[2] A day prior to the attack on Hilowle Gaab, al-Shabaab attacked the city of Mahas, killing over 35 people.^[3]

Attack[edit]

The attack began at 5 am, when civilians were beginning their morning prayers. A Ma'awisley spokesperson stated that three car bombs were set off by the militants, and a three hour long battle ensued between Somali forces and Ma'awisley fighters against al-Shabaab.^[2][4] Five Somali commanders were killed in the attack, along with several Ma'awisley fighters and civilians. Many other Somali soldiers were wounded.^[4] Somali government and military officials claimed to have pushed al-Shabaab back into the forests near Hilowle Gaab after the attack.^[4]

Aftermath[edit]

al-Shabaab claimed to have killed 31 Somali and Ma'awisley soldiers in the attack, along with capturing a base and scores of equipment.^[5] The Somali government declined to give a number of killed or injured on either side, although seven people were confirmed dead.^[6][1]

References[edit]