Somalia Opens New Intelligence Centre to Boost Fight Against Al-Shabaab

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somali National Army (SNA) unveiled a new Intelligence and Reconnaissance Centre in the capital, Mogadishu, an occasion graced by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, as the military aims to enhance its defence capabilities.

The facility, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said, is a reflection of the government’s commitment to developing defence institutions, with the new installation set to enhance military operations and support strategic planning.

The President commended the Ministry of Defence and SNA Command for their efforts, saying that every achievement reflects the resilience of the Somali people and the bravery of their armed forces, state media reports.

"President and Commander-in-Chief of the Somali National Army (SNA), H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, inaugurated the new headquarters of the Reconnaissance and Intelligence Command of the SNA in Mogadishu," read the statement.

"The modern facility is designed to strengthen the nation’s defence capabilities and enhance the fight against international terrorism," the presidency further said in a statement published after the event.

At the defence ministry, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was briefed on the successes against Al-Shabaab in Galgaduud and Lower Shabelle regions, where the military has initiated many operations with the assistance of the international partners.

On Friday, at least 75 Alshabaab militants were killed at El-Dheer in Galgadud after deadly confrontations with the federal troops, who managed to defend the town. Over 50 militants were critically wounded, the ministry said.

This remains the most successful operation in recent weeks, but at least six soldiers were killed during the confrontations.

The Somali National Army is working closely with the US Africa Command and the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in airstrikes and gathering of intelligence reports.

GAROWE ONLINE