Somali Forces Repel Major Al-Shabaab Assault, Killing Over 60 Militants

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somali National Army (SNA) repulsed a major Al-Shabaab attack on Friday, leaving at least 60 militants dead and over 50 critically injured, in one of the most dramatic counterattacks within the country.

The pre-dawn attack on Friday at El-Dheer District comes at a time the country is involved in various operations against Al-Shabaab, with a similar crackdown waged in Puntland state, where regional forces are fighting ISIS terrorists.

Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, Somalia’s Defence Minister, hailed the soldiers for their remarkable dedication to defending the country, adding that the success against the group in El-Dheer marks a significant step towards eliminating the group.

The enemy’s death toll has surpassed 60, with over 50 others wounded in the failed assault,” he said, adding that several militants were captured alive, reports SONNA.

Among those killed were two senior al-Shabaab leaders, identified as Daadullah and Sabir, according to an official statement. Minister Fiqi said the militants were forced to retreat, leaving many of their dead behind, state media added.

For the better part of Friday, the Somali National Army collected the bodies of Al-Shabaab militants around the town of Ceeldheer in the Galgaduud region, following heavy clashes. The terrorists attempted a surprise attack on the town but were met with a strong response from government forces.

The SNA and allied local forces have continued operations up to 20 kilometers outside the district to pursue fleeing militants. The US Africa Command is working closely with the Somali National Army and other international partners in pursuit of stability in Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE