Somali Forces Kill Over 20 Al-Shabaab Fighters in Hiiraan Offensive

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The Somali National Army backed by allied local militias have killed more than 20 Al-Shabaab militants in a military operation in the central Hiiraan region.

The offensive, carried out in the Mabaax and Gayacad areas, targeted Al-Shabaab strongholds as part of a wider push to reclaim territory from the Islamist group.

“Our forces launched a planned assault based on confirmed intelligence. The militants were overpowered and forced to flee,” a military commander involved in the operation said.

Local defense fighters, known as Macawisley, joined the Somali National Army (SNA) in the attack, underscoring the growing coordination between government forces and community-led militias in the fight against the militant group.

The operation is part of a broader government campaign aimed at weakening Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities, particularly in regions like Hiiraan, where the group has maintained a presence.

Security forces are continuing pursuit operations to secure the area and prevent the militants from regrouping, officials said.

The Somali government, with support from international partners, has increased military pressure on Al-Shabaab in recent months, combining ground offensives with airstrikes and logistical support.

Authorities reiterated their commitment to defeating the group, and restoring full control across the country.