Beledweyne (AX) – In a remarkable display of collaborative efforts, the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), in partnership with the Somali National Army (SNA) and various international allies, has confirmed the successful elimination of three high-ranking al-Shabaab leaders. This significant military operation unfolded on June 6, 2025, in the El-Hareri region of Hiiraan. The implications of this operation are profound, not just for local communities, but for the stability of the broader region.
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During a recent address to Somali National Television, Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi outlined the operation as a pivotal step in a sustained campaign aimed at dismantling the extremist group’s command structure within central Somalia. As he spoke, one could sense the gravity of the situation—how each word reflected not just a military success, but a hopeful narrative for a nation beleaguered by instability.
Among those who fell in the operation was Nuur Cabdi Rooble, also known as Nuunuule. He was no mere foot soldier; rather, he was the very ringleader orchestrating al-Shabaab’s operations across crucial areas such as Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, Mudug, and Galgaduud. The intricacies of his position made him a key target. According to the minister’s report, Rooble ultimately succumbed to injuries he sustained during a coordinated air and ground assault. His demise is expected to create a substantial ripple effect, potentially weakening the group’s strategic capabilities.
But Rooble was not alone in his downfall. The operation also took the lives of Caddaw, the group’s intelligence chief in Galgaduud, notorious for his role in coordinating internal tracking and surveillance of al-Shabaab’s activities. Additionally, Macallin Cumar, a senior official responsible for indoctrination and the militant training of new recruits, was also confirmed dead. The elimination of these key players raises an important question: Could this signify a turning point in the battle against extremism, or is it just a temporary reprieve?
During the operation, it was reported that at least five militants, including the three commanders, lost their lives. The ongoing commitment of the federal government to monitor al-Shabaab’s attempts to evacuate wounded fighters from the battlefield indicates a serious and proactive approach towards curtailing the group’s resurgence.
Local residents in the El-Hareri area recounted the harrowing experiences of intense fighting that had broken out in the days leading up to the operation. Witnesses confirmed that al-Shabaab faced severe losses during these clashes. For the people living in the constant shadow of violence, such developments often inspire a cautious optimism. One local farmer recalled a time when they could hear the distant rumble of clashes, followed not by dread, but by a glimmer of hope. “We feel safer now,” he said, his voice tinged with a mix of relief and anxiety about what the future holds.
This operation is a clear indication of the Somali government’s unwavering resolve to intensify military actions aimed at not only eliminating the leadership of al-Shabaab but also degrading its operational capabilities nationwide. As Minister Fiqi underscored, “Our fight against extremism is a marathon, not a sprint.” His words resonate deeply, underscoring the sustained effort required in this complex struggle.
Yet, there is a larger narrative to consider. The fight against extremism often involves more than military tactics—it’s a battle for hearts and minds, a journey toward restoring hope and rebuilding communities. Reflecting on this, one might ponder: What does it truly take to reverse the tide of radicalization? How can governments and communities better engage youth to prevent them from being lured by extremist ideologies? The human experience always craves connection, understanding, and purpose. These are the threads that bind society together and ultimately serve as a bulwark against violent extremism.
In conclusion, the operation in El-Hareri illustrates a significant and hopeful chapter in Somalia’s evolving narrative. Each success not only diminishes the immediate threat but also lays the groundwork for what could be a more peaceful future. As we move forward, it is essential to encourage dialogue, build community resilience, and foster an atmosphere that actively counters the allure of violence. The road ahead may still be fraught with challenges, but it’s one that can lead to a safer, more stable environment for all Somalis.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
