(02-09-23) MOGADISHU — In a series of coordinated operations on Saturday, the Somali National Army (SNA), backed by international allies, has inflicted significant damage on the extremist group Al-Shabaab, neutralising over 50 militants in separate incidents in the Lower Shabelle region, according to official statements from the Ministry of Defence.
The Ministry of Defence announced that a planned operation on Saturday in Towfiq, part of the Kuntuwaray district, resulted in the death of more than 20 members of the Khawarij— a term commonly used in Somalia to describe Al-Shabaab militants. Authorities confirmed that key leaders and foot soldiers were eliminated in a house during the raid.
“As we have stated before, we will target terrorists wherever they may hide,” said President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, reaffirming the government’s commitment to fighting extremism.
In another operation on Saturday morning, the SNA and allied forces successfully carried out an airstrike against an Al-Shabaab base near Harardhere, Mudug region. The targeted site in Dumaye Village served not only as a training camp but also as an operational hub, housing some of the group’s battle wagons.
“Our commitment to eliminate the Khawarij from Somalia continues,” the Ministry of Defence statement read. Al-Shabaab’s own media outlets reported that the airstrike hit a prison, claiming the lives of 4 inmates and injuring 7 others, three of whom are in serious condition. The veracity of these claims has yet to be independently verified.
On the previous day, Friday, the SNA and international allies neutralised over 30 Al-Shabaab militants in the Qoryoley district, also in the Lower Shabelle region. This decisive action followed a troubling incident late on Friday when militants infiltrated parts of the town.
These recent operations signify an uptick in the Somali government’s efforts to root out Al-Shabaab and come amid an intensified military offensive against the extremist group. “The SNA and our allies remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all Somalis,” the Ministry of Defence commented, emphasising the nation’s continued dedication to eliminating extremism.
Halqabsi News
