MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Somali National Army (SNA), aided by local militias, wiped out a minimum of seven Al-Shabaab insurgents in central Somalia, officials reported.
The incident occurred in Ali-Adhole, El-Dheer District, an area Al-Shabaab has fiercely tried to reclaim since its loss to the national forces. For months, the army has held this ground, establishing law and order.
Wednesday morning’s operation saw national troops obliterate the militant encampment and seize numerous weapons. Galmudug was among the first states to initiate operations against Al-Shabaab.
Joint campaigns against Al-Shabaab have borne fruit, with the group ceding crucial territories. Local volunteers have also bolstered security efforts.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vowed to annihilate the militants by the close of 2024. This promise has driven concentrated efforts, now focusing on Jubaland and Southwest regions, with initial actions targeting Galmudug and Hirshabelle.
With government-imposed business restrictions, Al-Shabaab faces difficulty collecting funds. Over 250 bank accounts and 70 mobile money services linked to the group have been shut down.
Following the withdrawal of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) at year’s end, Somali forces aim to assume full security duties. Leadership and operational control will then transition entirely to Somali command.
AXADLETM
