Somali Army, Local Fighters Target al-Shabab Stronghold in Central Region

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somali National Army (SNA) continued with operations against Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle region, with the Macawislay fighters joining the planned operations within Moora Godan, which is situated about 5 kilometres north of Raaga Ceelle village.

Middle Shabelle has been the epicentre of a hardened battleground between the national army and the al-Shabaab militants for the last seven months since the government launched operations against Al-Shabaab, a group controlling large swathes of rural central and southern regions.

The federal forces are working closely with Macawislay fighters, the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the US Africa Command, who are a critical pillar in the liberation of various frontlines over the last seven months.

"The operation specifically targeted a site used by Al-Shabaab militants as a hub to treat their wounded fighters and plan further attacks against the people," state media confirmed

The National Army and Macawiisley forces inflicted heavy losses on the militants at this site, destroying their hideout and disrupting their activities, weakening their ability to threaten the safety of local communities, reports further indicated.

"The Ministry of Defence commends the people for their continued role in defending their country and affirms that the Somali National Army and local community forces will sustain operations against the Khawarij to ensure the security, peace, and safety of all citizens."

This comes even as the US plans a drawdown of its troops from Somalia, a move which has been criticised by stakeholders who insist that such plans would only erode gains made against Al-Shabaab in various frontlines with the support of Americans.

But the federal government of Somalia maintains that its collaboration with the US remains unwavering, noting Washington's efforts to support the stabilisation project in the Horn of Africa nation.

"The Federal Republic of Somalia attaches great importance to its longstanding partnership with the United States, a relationship built on mutual respect, shared values, and a common vision for peace, stability, and sustainable development," Somalis said.

"As we continue to deepen our cooperation across a broad range of fields, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing these ties in the spirit of constructive engagement and enduring friendship."

The al-Shabab group has been recruiting young fighters, with the militants maintaining their mission to take over leadership. On the other hand, the government says it is firmly in charge despite frequent attacks by the Al-Qaeda-affiliated militants.

GAROWE ONLINE