How Did Al-Shabaab Take Over Maxaas?
The Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab has seized control of Maxaas, a critical transport and logistics hub in central Somalia, following intense clashes with Somali military forces and allied local militias. The takeover, confirmed by military sources on Sunday, marks another significant gain for the Al-Qaeda-linked group, which has launched a sweeping offensive in 2025, reclaiming territories lost during Somalia’s 2022–2023 government-led military operations.
In a statement, Al-Shabaab confirmed the capture of Maxaas, located approximately 300 kilometers from the capital, Mogadishu. The Somali National Army described their withdrawal from the town as a “tactical retreat,” rather than a full defeat.
“The brave members of the Somali army and the local community militias fought them fiercely outside town before making a tactical retreat to pre-established defensive positions outside town,” said Mohamed Dahir, an army commander in the area.
What Role Did Local Militias and AU Forces Play?
Before its capture, Maxaas had been under the control of Ethiopian troops operating under the African Union’s peacekeeping mission. They handed the base over to the Somali National Army in August 2024. Since then, local clan militias have also reinforced Al-Shabaab’s insurgency.
Ali Hayo, a local militia fighter, confirmed that the town had fallen after a fierce morning battle.
“Al-Shabab militants managed to enter the town after heavy fighting this morning,” he told AFP.
“There is still sporadic gunfire outside town, but I can confirm that the terrorists are now controlling Maxaas.”
What’s Next for Maxaas and the Somali Government?
Despite the fall of Maxaas, the conflict is far from over.
“The fighting is not over, we are still close to the town, and we are expecting to engage in counteroffensives,” Hayo added.
With the loss of Maxaas, Somalia’s government now faces renewed pressure to strengthen its defense strategy in central regions. The rapid territorial gains by Al-Shabaab raise serious questions about the sustainability of recent military progress and the coordination between national forces, AU troops, and community militias.
By Lucky Anyanje
