Somalia Army chief visits injured soldiers after deadly clash with Al-Shabaab

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Major General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhydin, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Somali National Army (SNA), has visited soldiers injured during Monday's deadly clashes in Southern Somalia, involving the army and Al-Shabaab militants who were keen to overrun military bases.

Major General Muhydin was accompanied by police chief Brigadier Sulub Ahmed Firin, who has also been instrumental in maintaining law and order within the country. The two, officials say, lauded the army for putting one of most impactful fight in Lower and Middle Jubba.

After the battle in Harboole and neighbourhood, Jubaland regional forces spokesperson Major Mohamed Farah Dahir said 135 militants were killed in the attacks with the army arresting 28 others near Bulo-Haji area.

The militants had attacked Bulo Haji, Harbole, and Mido, all of which were seized from al-Shabab since last month. The militants also fired on a fourth base at Bar Sanguni in an apparent attempt to disrupt possible reinforcement to the bases under attack.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud commended the national army for their 'patriotism' in defending the country after the repulsion of three simultaneous attacks targeting the Somali National Army bases.

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said the successful operation underscores the strength of the government forces and their readiness to defend the country from both internal and external threats. The victory of the army showcased the weakening of the Al-Shabaab, he said.

The Jubaland regional forces have been working closely with the national army with the collaboration said to have significantly reduced Al-shabaab influence within the region. The second phase of operations against Al-Shabaab kicked off in Jubaland and Southwest states recently.

On their part, Al-Shabaab claimed it had killed over 70 SNA soldiers but their version could not be substantiated. The Somali National Army displayed several fresh bodies purportedly of the militants who were neutralized during the encounter.

GAROWE ONLINE