Somalia preparing for ‘state of war’

MOGADISHU: Thousands of Ethiopian troops have crossed into Somalia to join a large-scale offensive against al-Shabaab extremists after an earlier warning from Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed that his country was preparing for a “state of war”.

Since the massive October 14 truck bombing in the Somali capital Mogadishu left 350 dead, Abdullahi has visited countries in the region seeking support in preparation for a major military offensive against the Islamist group.

With support from the AU Mission in Somalia troops, the assault will take place in the Lower and Middle Shabelle regions near the border between Ethiopia and Somalia.

The US military, which has stepped-up its fight against al-Shabaab since the beginning of the year, will play a supporting role.

As the military build-up continues, Ethiopian troops in tanks and armoured vehicles were seen moving towards the south-west yesterday.

While Somali and Amisom forces have had previous success in driving al-Shabaab out of Mogadishu and parts of the countryside, the militants have recently been able to step up regular attacks.

The group’s new successes have been attributed to an increased use in sophisticated explosives, divided local and foreign intelligence services, and Abdullahi’s battle to unite the federal government with regional powers. – ANA