Monday January 8, 2024
FILE PHOTO - SNA Chief Ibrahim Sheikh Muhidin
Mogadishu (HOL) - In a strategic airstrike led by the Somali National Army (SNA) with international support, a total of 26 Al-Shabaab militants were neutralized in Southern Mudug. This action, focused on a high-level Al-Shabaab member, was part of a weekend operation that culminated in 76 militants killed.
SNA Chief Ibrahim Sheikh Muhidin confirmed the successful targeting of senior Al-Shabaab commanders in recent airstrikes. He emphasized the extensive damage inflicted on the group's bases and vehicles, highlighting the military's progress in removing militants from their strongholds in central and southern Somalia.
"The al-Shabab terrorists suffered heavy casualties and lost 76 fighters during operations conducted in the past two days," Muhidin added.
The military action occurred in the Jeex-jeex area of Southern Mudug. The offensive involved the Somali army and local forces, who successfully overran Al-Shabaab positions. In a separate engagement in the same region, the army and local forces reportedly eliminated over 50 Al-Shabaab militants just a day prior.
The SNA and local militias, committed to defending Somalia, vow to continue their efforts until Al-Shabaab's influence is eradicated nationwide.
Al Shabaab, ousted from Mogadishu in 2011 by African Union forces, remains capable of conducting attacks targeting government entities, hotels, eateries, and public spaces.