Fierce Clashes Erupt as U.S.-Trained Special Forces Target Militant Stronghold in Somalia

KISMAYO, Somalia - The Danab Special Forces — a Special Operations contingent of the Somali National Army (SNA), which is trained by Americans, initiated operations in Jubaland, leading to the death of several fighters linked to the Al-Shabaab militants.

According to reports, the Danab Special Forces targeted Bulo Haji town which is located a few kilometres from the strategic town of Kismayo, which is the regional administrative capital of Jubaland state.

The fighting took place around Maqoqaha area, approximately 13 kilometres from Bulo Haji. The militants engaged in fierce clashes with the special operations team, leading to many casualties, which were reported.

Military officials said at least 37 militants were killed in the raid and several others were injured. The militants' arsenals were also destroyed beyond repair, officials said, while maintaining that the victory against the group was resounding.

But the al-Shabaab fighters said they repelled the attack by the Danab Special Forces, killing six US-trained troops and wounding 13 others. The claims could not be verified independently, given that the group is fond of spreading propaganda.

Danab Special Forces are trained and equipped by the US Africa Command, which nurtures the military within the country. The US has signified the possibility of withdrawing support for the Somali National Army, with the funding reportedly getting significantly slashed.

The government of Somalia has been pursuing the militants who still control large swathes of rural central and southern regions. The joint military operations have effortlessly destroyed the group’s hideouts on some frontlines.

GAROWE ONLINE