Danab commandos target al-Shabab extortion checkpoints in Lower Shabelle

Monday June 8, 2026

Mogadishu (AX) — Somali Danab commandos launched coordinated operations across parts of Lower Shabelle on Sunday, striking al-Shabab positions that military officials say were being used to squeeze money from motorists and residents.

The 161st Battalion of the 16th Brigade led the raids in Warmaxan, Tasxiille, Shareey, 10-Buundo, Tabeellaha and surrounding areas near Donka.

Military commanders said the targeted sites included checkpoints and concealed bases the group relied on to collect illegal taxes from communities and vehicles moving through the agricultural belt.

The army said Danab forces destroyed multiple fortified hideouts, tactical positions and tax-collection points linked to the militants.

Commanders added that the assault broke up al-Shabab’s defensive lines and pushed fighters back into rural areas.

“The operations are part of an ongoing campaign to weaken al-Shabab’s ability to control roads, intimidate civilians and finance attacks through extortion,” the army said.

Security forces have since taken up positions in the cleared areas and are carrying out patrols to stop militants from slipping back in, officials said.

Lower Shabelle remains a central front in the federal government’s offensive against al-Shabab, given its closeness to Mogadishu and its role as a major farming and commercial corridor.

Al-Shabab, which is affiliated with al-Qaida, continues to rely on taxation, checkpoints and intimidation to generate revenue in areas where it still wields influence, despite repeated military pressure from Somali forces and international partners.