Somali Forces Secure Marka Area after Planned Operation in Lower Shabelle

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somali government forces have taken control of the Marka area in the Lower Shabelle region following a coordinated security operation.

Military officials said the operation was carried out by the Gor-Gor Commando forces in cooperation with the 14 October Brigade and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).

The officials added that Al-Shabaab militants who had been hiding in the area fled as government troops advanced.

Security forces have since deployed across the Jilib Marka area, which remains calm, according to the Somali National Army.

Local residents, who for years faced extortion and intimidation by the militant group, welcomed the arrival of government forces, expressing relief and gratitude after being freed from al-Shabaab’s control.

The operation is part of a broader campaign by Somali authorities to restore security and reassert state presence in key areas of southern Somalia.