Somalia Army thwarts Al-Shabaab attack

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somali National Army (SNA) with the help of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has successfully thwarted the Al-Shabaab attack in Lower Shabelle, in yet another dramatic victory against the militants.

According to reports, the ATMIS and SNA contingent diffused a roadside bomb planted by the Al-Shabaab militants on the road between Lanta-Bura and Afgoye in the Lower Shabele Region, which is prone to terror attacks.

Military sources say the bomb had been planted to target both civilian and security forces using the road. There is heavy presence of the military within the Lower Shabelle region where they are undertaking operations against the militants.

The government troops have heightened patrols within the region as the war against the Al-Shabaab militants enters a critical phase. It is anticipated that by the end of this year, most areas will be liberated from the al-Shabaab.

The sources said the national forces are still carrying out similar operations in the area to ensure no more Improvised Explosive Devices remain along major roads to avoid harm to civilians and security forces.

Somali National Army is set to take security responsibilities from the ATMIS and US Africa Command by the end of this year. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared total war against al-Shabaab group and for the last two years, significant progress has been recorded.

Besides the military interventions, the government has effectively managed to seal money laundering loopholes thus causing significant financial distress to the group. The al-Shabaab militants still control large swathes of rural central and southern regions.

GAROWE ONLINE