Senior Al-Shabaab commander killed in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A senior Al-Shabaab commander was among three fighters killed in Mudug region in Somalia, following a coordinated operation within the Aalim area of Jowle District in Harardhere, marking a significant gain in the fight against the group.

Aseyr Ibrahim Mataan, the District Commissioner, said the multi-agency security teams destroyed the hideouts of the militants, seizing several weapons in the process. He termed the outing 'very successful'.

“The bodies of the militants, including senior operatives, were recovered,” Mataan said, noting the strategic significance of the operation.

One of those killed was identified as Mohamed Ali Gaaguf, a senior commander responsible for operations around Jowle area. He was orchestrating activities of the group within the Mudug region, officials said in a statement.

Also, the forces captured Hared Abdi Ali, a former local fighter who is said to have defected to the group about eight months ago. His arrest is expected to provide critical intelligence to support ongoing counterterrorism efforts.

The Somali National Army, with the help of the US Africa Command and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), has been pursuing the militants on several frontlines, making huge gains in most parts of the country.

Local fighters have also been co-opted in the war, helping the national army to make gains on several frontlines. The US Africa Command has specifically been helping in activating air surveillance, blocking the group from escalating attacks.

Al-Shabaab, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United Nations and several countries, continues to wage a violent insurgency. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expects to mobilise more resources from external financiers in the fight against the group.

GAROWE ONLINE