Al-Shabaab loses fighters in a heavy battle in central Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somali National Army (SNA) announced inflicting casualties on the al-Shabaab militants on Friday, following a fierce battle within the Hiiraan region, where the group has been facing resistance from security forces seeking to liberate several strategic areas.

For close to five months, security forces have intensified the crackdown against al-Shabaab fighters, edging the group from several frontlines in the country. The military has largely termed its expeditions 'fruitful' in its assessments.

Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, the new defence minister, told the state media that over 30 Al-Shabaab fighters were killed in the Hiiraan battle as security teams seized strategic areas ahead of the final offensive in the group’s hideouts.

"Somali forces wipe out nearly 30 al-Shabaab militants, including key leaders, in fierce Hiraan battle," state media reports, noting the progress made by the security forces over the last three months in central regions.

"A major blow to Khawarij terrorists as troops repel coordinated attacks. Defense Minister hails heroic troops and local resistance," read the statement.

The government of Somalia has invested in various strategies in the fight against Al-Shabaab, including involving over 300 religious scholars who assist in preaching against violent extremism. The government is also keen to block Al-Shabaab's revenue streams.

Already, over 250 bank accounts relaying financial help to the group have been closed, and 70 mobile money transfer firms have also been locked out of the market. Al-Shabaab uses the money to pay fighters and purchase sophisticated weapons.

Recently, Preaching Hassan Sheikh Mohamud blamed the proliferation of weapons in the country on Yemen’s Houthi movement, which is said to be supplying weapons through the Gulf of Aden. The Houthis are yet to respond to the claims.

GAROWE ONLINE