Sunday September 15, 2024
Somali National Army’s Danab forces and Jubbaland security forces stand guard after destroying an Al-Shabaab hideout in the Lower Jubba region, demonstrating ongoing efforts to eradicate militant presence in the area.
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali government forces and Jubbaland troops killed several Al-Shabaab militants early Sunday in a clash in Janay Abdalla, Lower Jubba, marking the latest offensive in the government's ongoing campaign to dismantle the militant group.
The battle erupted when Al-Shabaab militants launched an attack on a military base in Janay Abdalla, manned by Somali National Army (SNA) forces and Jubbaland paramilitary units. According to a statement from the Somali Federal Government, the government troops repelled the assault, resulting in significant casualties among the militants, with at least five members killed. "The bodies of five Khawarij who aimed to harm civilians were left behind as the terrorists fled. Pursuit of these Khawarij, who have been a persistent threat to the Somali National Army and Jubbaland forces, is ongoing," the Federal Government stated.
This repelled attack is part of a larger military effort in Lower Jubba aimed at eradicating Al-Shabaab's influence. Earlier operations in July saw Somali National Army and Jubbaland forces capture several strategic areas, including Lagta Qubbi, Golhadamo, Biibi, Harboole, and Miido. These offensives were vital in reopening the main road between Kismayo and Afmadow, previously under Al-Shabaab control, and disrupting the group's stronghold in the region.
On July 22, government forces intensified their campaign, killing over 80 Al-Shabaab fighters, including several leaders, in an operation targeting Buulo Haaji, Baar Sanguuni, and Harboole. The raid led to the seizure of a substantial cache of weapons and the clearing of key supply routes. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hailed the successes as a turning point in the fight against the militants, lauding the Somali Armed Forces for their role in these victories.
Lower Jubba has long been a strategic stronghold for Al-Shabaab, serving as a base for operations near the Kenyan border. The region's liberation is vital for securing Kismayo, the interim capital of the Jubbaland administration. Janay Abdalla and surrounding areas remain focal points in the Somali military's strategy to dismantle Al-Shabaab's operational capabilities.