Somali Forces Seize Strategic Town from Al-Shabaab in Fresh Bay Region Offensive

GOOBJOOG NEWS | BAIDOA: In a decisive show of force, South West State security forces, backed by elite units of the Somali National Army (SNA), have retaken control of Deeynuunay, a strategically vital area just 18 kilometers from Baidoa, following a fierce military operation launched early Monday.

The joint offensive, spearheaded by South West Darwish forces and SNA’s 8th Battalion, targeted entrenched Al-Shabaab fighters who had held the town for months, using it as a staging ground for attacks across the Bay region.

Heavy gunfire erupted as government troops advanced into the town under coordinated command. Local sources described hours of intense fighting before insurgent lines broke, allowing Somali forces to sweep in and reassert control.

“This victory isn’t just about geography, it’s about momentum,” said a senior officer with the South West Police Command. “Deeynuunay is a critical buffer zone for Baidoa. Taking it back denies Al-Shabaab a launchpad and boosts civilian confidence.”

Security personnel remain on the ground conducting clearance operations to root out any remaining threats and secure the area against future attacks.

The recapture of Deeynuunay marks the latest in a string of offensives aimed at dismantling Al-Shabaab’s network in the Bay region.

Defense officials indicated that further operations are planned in the coming days, underscoring the government’s renewed resolve to reclaim lost territory and restore state authority across South West State.