Several Al-Shabaab militants killed in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Security forces in Somalia have killed several Al-Shabaab militants in central regions, authorities said, making a significant comeback in the fight against the group which had intensified attacks throughout the holy month of Ramadan.

According to reports, the security teams mobilized against Al-Shabaab in the Barag Garguurte area just near Harardhere, a coastal city in the Mudug region under the Galmudug State of Somalia, before waging an airstrike. 

It is not clear who fired the drone strike but multiple international partners - at the Somali Federal Government's request - have conducted aerial bombardments against the Al-Qaeda-linked terror group.

The airstrike hit the remote village which is exactly 20 kilometers from Harardhere, a town that is frequently under Al-Shabaab attacks. The town was recently retaken by the militants after Somali National Army withdrew from the area.

A statement from the federal government confirmed the airstrike on Monday, noting that the militants had been gathering within the area potentially to plan an attack against security forces and innocent civilians in the region.

"These days, the Khawarij have been bringing vehicles into the area. The airstrike destroyed army vehicles and killed members of the terrorists. Three vehicles were also burnt," the statement added.

The government did not specify the number of militants killed in the airstrike but mentioned that the group suffered a significant loss. The al-Shabaab militants have not stated concerning the latest losses in the country.

Somalia has increased the intensity of the fight against Al-Shabaab militants with over 4,000 losing lives recently after several operations. The second phase of operations against the group is set to kick off in southern regions either Jubaland or Southwest states being the targets.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared total war against al-Shabaab and projects that by December 2024, the country would be liberated from the militants. The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) is also set to completely withdraw by the end of this year.

GAROWE ONLINE