(16 Mar 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – Somali government forces, with international support, have launched air strikes and ground offensives targeting Al-Shabab strongholds across several regions.
Officials describe the operations as “precision-guided,” and they aim to disrupt Al-Shabab’s logistics, leadership, and territorial control.
In Middle Shabelle, air strikes targeted Boos Hareeri and Ceelbacad, with officials saying senior Al-Shabab commanders were killed and military vehicles destroyed. Ground forces then moved into the areas, with reports of heavy fighting.
Ministry of Defence spokesperson Abuukar Sheekh Maxamed said, “We have dismantled key enemy infrastructure and disrupted their plans to terrorise civilians.”
In Lower Shabelle, a bridge used by Al-Shabab for troop and supply movements was destroyed in an air strike. Mr Abuukar said militant trucks were destroyed, cutting off a key supply route. Somali National Army (SNA) troops also advanced in Awdheegle, where local sources reported heavy Al-Shabab casualties.
In Middle Jubba, a strike targeted Jilib, Al-Shabab’s largest operational base. Deputy Information Minister Abdirahman Al-Adala said, “The eradication of Al-Shabab has reached Jilib,” but details of casualties were not released.
A Ministry of Defence statement said the operations were nationwide, with air strikes and ground forces targeting “hideouts, supply routes, and leadership positions.”
Humanitarian groups have reported displacement in conflict zones, with residents fleeing Jilib and Awdheegle. Aid agencies have warned of restricted access to deliver aid.
Al-Shabab has not commented on the attacks. Security analysts have warned that long-term success will depend on stabilising liberated areas.
The government has said it will continue operations to “completely eradicate” Al-Shabab. International partners are expected to increase support.
Halqabsi News
