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Somali Forces Eliminate Key Al Shabaab Commanders in Strategic Anti-Terror Raid

Storyline:Security, War on Al-Shabaab

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somali security forces killed more than 40 al Shabaab fighters in a joint operation in the central region of Hiiraan, the government said on Friday, describing the strike as a major step forward in its campaign to restore national stability.

The offensive, carried out by the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), the Somali National Army (SNA), and international partners, targeted a militant stronghold in the Ceelhareeri area, resulting in the deaths of several high-ranking members of the al Qaeda-linked group. Vehicles used by the insurgents were also destroyed.

“This operation is a decisive blow to the group’s ability to wage war against the Somali people,” a government spokesperson said. “It reflects the growing strength and professionalism of our national forces.”

Among those killed was Abuu Anas, identified as al Shabaab’s chief logistics coordinator for combat units, and Mohamed Ahmed, known as Xerow, a senior field commander. Two other top figures—Nuur Cabdi Rooble, known as Nuunuule, and Commander Jeylaani—were critically wounded. Rooble was reportedly overseeing operations across four regions, including Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, Mudug, and Galgaduud.

Authorities said the group was responsible for planning recent suicide bombings and coordinated assaults that targeted civilians and local administrations in central Somalia.

Officials called the operation a “strategic success” that significantly disrupts al Shabaab’s command structure and weakens its capacity to coordinate regional attacks.

The Somali government, which has intensified its military efforts since 2022 under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, says these gains are part of a broader national push to defeat terrorism and reclaim rural areas long held by militants.

“Our message to the Somali people and the world is clear: Somalia is winning,” the government said in a statement. “Our forces are advancing, and our sovereignty is being restored, region by region.”