MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Somali National Army [SNA] achieved significant progress on Sunday through a successful operation against Al-Shabaab, the Department of Defence announced. This crackdown resulted in the death of at least 70 fighters as the country escalates its fight against terrorism in the Horn of Africa.
The Ministry of Defence reported that the army killed over 70 Al-Shabaab militants in the troubled Galmadug state, specifically in the north-central Mudug region. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud personally visited Galmadug and urged locals to join the national and regional forces in the war against terrorism.
According to reports, the military conducted a raid on Sunday targeting Al-Shabaab hideouts and meeting places in the town of Aad. This led to a firefight between the national army and the armed militants.
The Ministry of Defence stated that during the encounter, key leaders of the terrorist group and numerous fighters were killed. Deputy Information Minister Abdirahman Adala confirmed the incident and commended the soldiers for their unwavering commitment to defending the country.
The Somali Defense Ministry also acknowledged the operation, stating, “Recent military actions in Mudug and Galgaduud have inflicted significant damage on Khawarij and their militias.” The operation took place a day after the militants killed over 30 people in Beledweyne, Hiiraan region.
Furthermore, an airstrike targeting the militants was carried out on Saturday in Elbur, resulting in the death of a senior Al-Shabaab militant whose identity has not been disclosed. The government of Somalia, with the support of international partners, is actively working towards eliminating the Al-Shabaab militants.
The second phase of operations against Al-Shabaab is set to commence in Jubaland and Southwest states. However, there has been a delay as most officers were deployed to central regions for a combing exercise. The first phase focused on Galmadug and HirShabelle states.
