Southwest State vows to push Al-Shabaab out of its regions

Somalia’s southwest has ordered its forces to flush out Al-Shabaab fighters from the towns in the State amid Al-Shabaab is determined to disrupt Somalia’s election process.

Southwest state deputy police commissioner, Mohamed Isack Ara’ase said the forces would launch more attacks on Al-Shabaab contralled areas until the group is eliminated.

“We will crush any attempt to disturb peace and development in Southwest State,” said Ara’ase.

Ara’ase said that Southwest is committed to consolidating the war against Al-Shabaab fighters in these regions.

“We were able to eliminate military bases in the region which Al-Shabab carried out its subversive operations against the government in the region,” he said.

He said Southwest State forces will be supported by AMSIOM as to speed up the operation to flush out Al-Shabaab fighters.

“It is very significant to rid off Al-Shabaab elements from the few areas in the country in order stabilize country and avoid further attacks from the group,” he noted.

He also said Southwest State would take steps to crack down on those who planned and financed terrorist attacks.

Al-Shabaab, which is believed to have hundreds of fighters in its ranks, controls much of Middle Shabelle in southern Somalia and regularly launches attacks in the capital Mogadishu.

Al-Shabaab has since resorted to tactics that include suicide bombings and assassinations of government officials.