At least 5 Al-Shabaab fighters killed in Somalia offensive

MOGADISHU, Somalia - At least 5 Al-Shabaab fighters have been killed in Somalia just days after security forces killed 70 fighters in the country, in yet another indication of a strong spirit in the fight against the group, which has been the source of instability in the Horn of Africa nation.

According to reports, the five militants were killed at Omar Beere within the notorious Lower Shabelle, with security teams vowing to make more strides in the fight against the group, which controls most parts of rural central and southern regions.

During the operation, security teams also destroyed hideouts while gaining control of strategic areas within the vicinity. The al-Shabaab fighters have lately been suffering setbacks in central and southern regions within the Horn of Africa nation.

The operation is part of a broader offensive aimed at dismantling Al-Shabaab’s network and preventing attacks on civilians and infrastructure, officials said in a statement while reaffirming their commitment to the fight against the group.

Meanwhile, the European Union has agreed to improve cooperation with the federal government of Somalia while reaffirming its commitment towards protecting gains made in the fight against Al-Shabaab militants under the supervision of the federal government.

Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, the minister of defence, held a meeting with EU ambassador Karin Johansson, who agreed on strategies for expanding military training as part of the stabilisation effort in the country. The teams also discussed protecting areas that have been liberated from the al-Shabaab.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to joint efforts aimed at building a professional and capable Somali Armed Forces, capable of taking over security responsibilities from international forces, officials said.

GAROWE ONLINE