Al-Shabaab militants have taken control of a helicopter that crash-landed near their stronghold in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region. The aircraft, operated by Burundian peacekeepers under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), was forced to make an emergency landing due to mechanical failure during a critical evacuation operation.
The helicopter was transporting Burundian troops evacuating the village of Hawadley, which had been severely affected by heavy flooding. The worsening conditions compelled AUSSOM forces to withdraw from the area. According to official reports, the technical malfunction occurred on Monday, forcing the pilots to perform an emergency landing close to territory controlled by the militant group.
Fortunately, all personnel aboard—including pilots and soldiers—managed to escape the crash site unharmed. They were promptly moved to a secure nearby military base, ensuring their safety. However, the abandoned helicopter fell into the hands of Al-Shabaab fighters, who have since claimed possession of the wreckage.
Local sources indicate that following the departure of AUSSOM forces, Al-Shabaab militants may have returned to reassert control over Hawadley. The village lies within a strategically significant area where the group maintains a strong presence, particularly around Jowhar, the administrative capital of the Hirshabelle State.
In response to the incident, Kareem Adebayo, acting Special Representative of the African Union Commission Chairperson for Somalia, lauded the Burundian troops for their professionalism and quick response during the evacuation.
“We commend the swift and safe actions of the Burundian peacekeepers amid this challenging situation. The African Union remains committed to supporting the Somali people and government in managing the impacts of natural disasters and security threats,” Adebayo stated.
This event underscores the precarious security landscape in Middle Shabelle, where efforts by Somali authorities and AUSSOM to stabilize key areas are continually undermined by militant activity and environmental challenges. The intersection of conflict and climate-induced disasters complicates operations, leaving vulnerable communities caught between violence and natural calamities.
