Somali Forces Intensify Operations Against Al-Shabaab in Central Somalia

GOOBJOOG NEWS | HARARDHERE: Somali National Army forces, local fighters and the administration of Harardheere district have conducted a planned operation against Al-Shabaab in two villages in central Somalia, as government forces continue efforts to expand security in areas previously held or contested by the militant group.

The operation was carried out in Jiracle and Hareeri Jimcaad, villages under the Caad area of Harardheere district. Security forces targeted locations where Al-Shabaab militants were reportedly hiding and moved into the villages during the operation.

The forces secured the areas where the operation took place, according to the authorities, who did not provide details on casualties, arrests or weapons seized.

Harardheere, a coastal district in Galmudug state’s Mudug region, has been an important area in Somalia’s campaign against Al-Shabaab. The group has maintained a presence in parts of central Somalia, where government forces and local fighters have carried out operations to regain territory and disrupt militant activity.

Somali security forces have continued working with local communities and clan-based forces in central regions, where local fighters have played a role in operations against Al-Shabaab alongside government troops.

Securing rural settlements and roads remains a key part of the campaign, both to restrict militant movement and to allow government authorities and security forces to extend their presence into areas affected by the conflict.

The authorities urged local communities to support security operations and provide information on militant movements, while no further details were given on the outcome of the operation beyond the securing of the targeted villages.