Somali forces and Jubbaland troops destroy al-Shabaab strongholds in Lower Jubba

Somali National Army (SNA) forces, backed by Jubbaland State's Darawish troops, have intensified their offensive against Al-Shabaab militants in Lower Jubba. The operation, which began earlier this week, is aimed at dismantling key insurgent strongholds near Bulo Haji. The focus has been on the dense bushland of Lagta Anole, where military officials report that several Al-Shabaab hideouts have already been destroyed.

Jubbaland Darawish Commander Ismail Sahardid confirmed that Somali and Jubbaland forces have made significant gains in driving militants from their bases. "We've dismantled several important positions used by the militants for staging attacks," Sahardid said in a statement to government media.

According to reports, the area has long served as a refuge for Al-Shabaab leaders, including both Somali and foreign fighters, who have used the location to plan and launch attacks against Somali and Jubbaland forces stationed in the region.

Clashes between the two sides have been ongoing since the operation began earlier this week. While casualties, including deaths and injuries on both sides, have been reported, no official figures have been released.

These ongoing operations in Jubbaland builds on recent military successes in the region. Just last Sunday, Somali National Army (SNA) forces and Jubbaland security units clashed with Al-Shabaab militants in Janay Abdalla, Lower Jubba. The militants launched an attack on a military base, but government forces repelled the assault, killing at least five Al-Shabaab fighters.

Earlier operations in July also saw Somali forces and Jubbaland troops make considerable progress, killing scores of militants— including top leaders and capturing key areas like Lagta Qubbi, Golhadamo, Biibi, Harboole, and Miido. These offensives reopened strategic routes between Kismayo and Afmadow, further weakening Al-Shabaab's grip on the region. Lower Jubba remains a critical focus for the Somali government's military campaign, as securing the region is vital for ensuring the stability of Kismayo, the interim capital of the Jubbaland administration.