(16-06-23) MOGADISHU — The Somali Ministry of Defence Communications Office confirmed on Friday that the Somali National Army’s 43rd division supported by U.S. AFRICOM executed a strategic operation involving a drone strike. The target: a crucial Al-Shabaab meeting taking place a mere 14km from the Jamame district in the Lower Jubba region.
At 6:15 pm local time, the drone, operated with the aid of AFRICOM, unleashed precision-guided missiles on the militant gathering. The attack, backed by international forces, resulted in substantial casualties. Among the dead, it is believed, are high-ranking members of Al-Shabaab leadership.
The strike’s success has been hailed as a monumental blow to Al-Shabaab’s command structure. Officers from the 43rd division confirmed the operation’s impact, labelling it as ‘significant’. This lethal drone strike demonstrates the Somali government’s commitment to eradicating insurgency and ensuring national security.
While the final casualty count remains undisclosed as investigations continue, initial reports suggest the inflicted loss to Al-Shabaab is considerable. This operation’s outcome could seriously destabilise the militant group’s ability to plan and execute future attacks.
For over a decade, Al-Shabaab has plagued Somalia, continually posing a severe security threat. The Somali National Army’s intensified efforts, backed by international allies like AFRICOM, signal an increased resolve to reclaim control of regions under extremist influence.
The Somali government has expressed gratitude to its international allies for their support and partnership in this mission. The success of this operation illuminates a hopeful path in Somalia’s battle against extremism.
Even though the journey to lasting peace remains long and fraught, operations like this prove that tangible progress is being made. With resilience and determination, the Somali National Army and its allies stand firm in the fight against terror, ready to restore peace.