Defence Ministry Says 27 Al-Shabaab Fighters Killed In Lower Shabelle

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Minisrty of Defence has said at least 27 Al-Shabaab fighters have been killed in a series of military operations in Lower Shabelle region, as security forces continue an offensive aimed at weakening the militant group’s presence in southern Somalia.

In a statement, the Ministry said the operations, carried out on 1 and 2 July with the support of international partners, targeted Al-Shabaab positions in the areas of Tawakal, Nuun Garre and Ugunji.

The ministry said the strikes destroyed vehicles, weapons and military equipment allegedly used by the group to coordinate attacks against government forces and civilians. It added that several other fighters were wounded during the operations.

The operations come as Somali forces intensify pressure on the militant group, which continues to control parts of rural southern and central Somalia despite years of military campaigns backed by local militias, African Union troops and international partners.

In recent months, the government has stepped up a combination of airstrikes and ground offensives targeting the group’s leadership, supply routes and strongholds, particularly in Lower Shabelle, Middle Shabelle and Hirshabelle states.

Military officials say the strategy is intended to disrupt Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities and reclaim territory still under its control.

The latest operation underscores the continued security challenge facing Somalia as it seeks to consolidate territorial gains while gradually assuming greater responsibility for national security under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).