Somalia's spy agency intercepts explosives

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia's spy agency has intercepted explosives destined for Al-Shabaab strongholds even as the country gears for the second phase of operations against the militants, who have been controller parts of central and southern regions for the last two decades.

The National Intelligence Security Agency [NISA] confirmed in a tweet that a vehicle carrying explosive devices was intercepted along Elasha- Biyaha Road within Mogadishu, the capital, leading to a shootout with the driver. The driver was subdued and died on the spot, the agency said.

While committing itself to secure the country from the hands of the militants, the spy agency insisted that the crackdown against the militants would be intensified across the country, noting that locals should also actively participate for the sake of sharing intelligence.

"Our special forces in Elasha- Biyaha intercepted a vehicle carrying explosive devices and killed the driver after he attempted to escape. NISA is committed to preventing and thwarting all plans that terrorists intend to harm the people," the agency said.

NISA works closely with security forces in pursuing criminals including Al-Shabaab militants, who have been fighting to topple the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia but have struggled due to resistance. multi-agency teams safeguarding civilians in Somalia.

The fight against Al-Shabaab militants is gaining momentum in the country given the backup by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS] troops, the US Africa Command, and local militia. In total, the first phase of operations against Al-Shabaab left 3,000 militants dead.

Al-Shabaab militants have lost several strategic grounds in the past few months, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attributing the gains to resilience from the people and security forces. The second phase of operations against the group will target Jubaland and Southwest states.

GAROWE ONLINE