Central Somalia witnesses destruction of Al-Shabaab bases

MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Somali government has successfully eliminated three suspected Al-Shabaab bases in central Somalia, in a recent crackdown targeting the militants in areas that were previously untouched in the initial operations against them in Galmadug and HirShabelle states.

With the support of international partners, Somali troops conducted an operation in the Galhareri District of Galmadug, resulting in the destruction of three Al-Shabaab bases. These bases served as hideouts for the militants after carrying out attacks on civilians and security forces. The authorities discovered that the bases were also being used for manufacturing explosives and storing weapons and medical supplies. The militants were even utilizing the services of kidnapped medical practitioners from distant areas to provide medical assistance.

Local militia have been actively involved in this crackdown, having been mobilized in recent weeks to assist in neutralizing the militants who have been a major threat to central and southern Somalia. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has been personally touring Central Somalia this week to assess the situation and encourage soldiers to clear areas that Al-Shabaab militants still occupy. He was warmly received by Ahmed Kaliye, also known as Qoor-Qoor, the regional leader in Dhusamareb.

The teams involved in this mission have agreed on both short-term and long-term strategies to defeat Al-Shabaab. The authorities have confirmed that the second phase of operations will soon commence in Jubaland and Southwest states, with a significant number of soldiers already prepared for deployment to the frontline.

Al-Shabaab militants aim to overthrow the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia. However, the collective efforts of local forces, international partners, and local militia have helped the government retain control. Al-Shabaab has also lost sizeable territory in recent weeks.