Govt Forces, Backed by Local Militia, Kill Dozens of Al-Shabaab Fighters in Central Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somali National Army (SNA) announced the deaths of several Al-Shabaab fighters in central Somalia following an operation conducted alongside the Macawislay fighters, who have been instrumental in the fight against the militants.

According to military reports, the militants were ambushed by the soldiers in their hideouts within the forested areas of Ali-Heelle and Iid-Kuus in the Galgaduud region, where the militants control large swathes of rural areas.

Military officials who oversaw the operation confirmed that an unspecified number of militants were killed, describing the casualties as “dozens.” The forces also destroyed newly established Al-Shabaab bases in the area.

The military said the SNA's 77th Battalion undertook the operation, working together with the local community fighters. Although the exact number of those killed was not immediately revealed, sources say 'several' militants were eliminated.

This comes as the military court executed Anas Abdulqadir Ali Mahmoud “Salman” and Aden Mursal Mohamed Iidow, members of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group, who were convicted of carrying out bombings and targeted killings.

Court documents revealed that the two were linked to planned assassinations and bomb attacks targeting civilians and government officials. Direct involvement in the terrorist attack in Gaalkacyo, Puntland, which claimed the lives of prominent community leaders, including elders and traditional figures.

The al-Shabaab militants have been fighting to topple the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia, but the strong resilience of the Somali National Army and allies has managed to keep the militants at bay, inflicting losses on their side.

Al-Shabaab, however, has made significant gains in recent weeks after taking over Moqokori, Adan Yabaal, and Mahas towns. But a few days ago, the army and allies managed to retake Barire following intense fighting.

GAROWE ONLINE