Somali defence minister hails Bardhere recapture, vows heightened operations

Somali defence minister Ali Dini has hailed the recapature of Bardhere by Somali National Army and AMISOM terming it a victory on the war on terror in Somalia.

The minister said the soldiers displayed unmatched tact and bravery in capturing the town which had until yesterday been under Al-Shabaab rule for the last seven years.

“I wish to congratulate our SNA and AMISOM forces for their bravery and cooperation in capturing Bardhere.  We are focused on liberating all parts of Somalia and putting them under government control,” said Dini.

The capture of Bardhere Wednesday effectively cut of one of the last strongholds and sources of revenue for the ragtag militia which has terrorized locals and subjected their businesses to heavy taxation to fund their terror activities.

African Union and Somali troops rolled into Bardhere Wednesday morning with ease after weeks of military buildup and airstrikes as the militant group Al-Shabaab fled the town effectively denying them one of their last revenue sources.

Al-Shabab fighters continue to stage frequent attacks, seeking to counter claims that they are close to defeat after losing territory in the face of repeated African Union and Somali government offensives, regular US drone strikes against their leaders and defections.