(15-07-23) DHUSAMAREB – In the early hours of Saaturday, Somali’s elite Danab commando forces launched a meticulously planned operation targeting Al-Shabaab’s clandestine bases in the Budbud locality of Galgaduud region.
Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Abdullahi Nur Beeryare, commander of the 16th battalion of the Danab commando forces, broke the news to national media outlets. The commander provided an account of the successful operation, detailing how various Al-Shabaab hideouts within the area were decimated.
“Throughout the operation, our forces obliterated numerous sites where Al-Shabaab was storing explosive devices. Additionally, another locale harbouring their weaponry was also destroyed,” Lieutenant Colonel Beeryare said, showcasing the operation’s achievements.
Budbud is notorious for oscillating control between Al-Shabaab militants and the Somali government forces. It had been previously liberated from the insurgents but fell back into their control after the Somali government forces vacated the area.
The timing of these operations comes on the heels of the ATMIS announcing a drawdown of their forces by 2,000 soldiers. This transition has prompted the Somali government to assert that its national army is now in control of the forward operating bases relinquished by ATMIS during the drawdown.
Expressing readiness to assume full control of the nation’s security after ATMIS’s total withdrawal, the Ministry of Defence issued a statement. It signalled the government’s commitment to uphold the timely implementation of the resolution and a resolve to work in conjunction with international partners and the Mission to achieve national security objectives.
This successful operation represents a significant stride in the Somali government’s relentless efforts to re-establish stability and curb Al-Shabaab’s insurgent activities in the country. However, the challenges posed by the anticipated withdrawal of ATMIS forces will undoubtedly test the mettle of the Somali National Army in their bid to maintain control over reclaimed territories.
