(13-08-23) MOGADISHU – The Defence Ministry of Somalia has issued a stringent warning on Sunday to residents living under Al-Shabaab control, amid escalating operations against the militant group.
Residents have been strongly advised to distance themselves from Al-Shabaab training camps and sites known for explosive preparations. This admonition comes as the ministry delineates regions for imminent ground attacks and airstrikes.
Spokesman Gen. Abdulahi Anod appealed to the public for their cooperation. “The people are required to share information with the authorities about the places where Al-Shabaab is hiding,” Anod stated. He further cautioned that the ministry would deal sternly with individuals found liaising with Al-Shabaab, highlighting the recent prohibition against any dealings with the extremist group.
In a forward-looking declaration, Gen. Anod announced that the second phase of the government’s strategy would soon commence, vowing dedication towards eliminating Al-Shabaab from Somali territories.
These declarations followed shortly after a joint operation by the national security forces, assisted by international allies, targeting Al-Shabaab in the Baladul-Amin and Baladul-Karim zones of Lower Shabelle. Intelligence had indicated secretive congregations of Al-Shabaab militants in local farmsteads. Consequently, the areas underwent a series of airstrikes.
In a statement, the federal government of Somalia confirmed that the assault resulted in the demise of 18 Al-Shabaab affiliates. This information was corroborated by the national army officers and disseminated through government media channels. “The areas where the operations were carried out are now occupied by the National Army, who are chasing the Khawarij,” the statement detailed.
Moreover, recent airstrikes targeted Al-Shabaab bases in the Buula-Fulaay region, situated within the Burhakaba district in the Bay area. The Defence Ministry of Somalia reported significant damage, noting the obliteration of facilities that stored the group’s weapons, medical provisions, and military vehicles. The operation purportedly inflicted severe casualties on the militant group.
This series of strikes and warnings mark a continued effort by the Defence Ministry of Somalia, with support from international forces, to reclaim territories and curtail Al-Shabaab’s influence in the region.
