Army Raids Deal Major Blow to Al-Shabab in Central Somalia

GALGADUD, Somalia - The Al-Shabaab militants suffered massive setbacks in central Somalia following an operation waged by the Somali National Army (SNA), in the latest crackdown, which has significantly helped the country to stabilize in various parts.

At Galgaduud in Galmudug state, hideouts belonging to the militants were destroyed, effectively disrupting the activities of the fighters in central regions. The transport corridor was also seized by the army.

According to reports, the SNA's 242nd battalion led the operations between Cali Yabaal and the Geeriile junction. One of the major targets was the store used by the militants for the storage of supplies, besides sheltering the militants.

Before the attack, the militants were preparing to launch attacks against the Somali National Army and the civilians within the vicinity. The military was able to execute the attack before the militants unleashed the raid.

According to Capt. Bashiir Qorane, the commander of the battalion, the intelligence showed that Al-Shabab militants had been using the area to stage operations and plant threats along the main road. He said the mission unfolded as planned and prevented several plots aimed at civilians.

“Our forces dismantled the shelters the militants relied on to hide and plan attacks,” Qorane said in an interview with state media. “They also secured the road between Cali Yabaal and the Geeriile junction, which the group had used for movement and regrouping.”

Military officials said the operation was part of the ongoing campaign to weaken Al-Shabab’s rural presence in central Somalia. Central Somalia has seen increased security activity in recent months as the army and local forces seek to reopen roads, restore services, and limit the group’s ability to launch cross-regional attacks.

Al-Shabaab militants are reportedly in talks with the government of Somalia through proxy talks aided by both Qatar and Turkey. However, details about the deal are yet to be shared, but the group has lost significantly within the last two months following military operations.

GAROWE ONLINE