Somali National Army prepares for major offensive with operations in Bakool region

Somali National Army (SNA) conducted security operations on Wednesday in several areas of the Bakool region as part of preparations for a large-scale military offensive in Southwest State to eliminate Al-Shabaab strongholds.  

The operations targeted Wargolole, Hooyaley, and Abagbeday, areas located north of Hudur district in the Bakool region. According to an officer from the 9th Brigade of the 60th Division, the mission's primary objective was to secure Hudur district and strengthen overall security in the region ahead of intensified military efforts.  

No casualties or clashes with Al-Shabaab fighters were reported during the operation, according to the SNA officer.  

The military operations come two days after Somalia's Ministry of Defense announced that federal forces and local fighters had killed over 40 Al-Shabaab militants during Tuesday's intense operations in the Hiiraan region.  

The ministry's spokesperson, Abukar Mohamed, detailed the successful strikes in Beera Yabaal, Addow Gurey, and other locations along the Shabelle River as federal forces work to clear key areas from militant control. 

 

 Somali army kills 16 al-Shabaab terrorists

The Somali army on Tuesday killed 16 al-Shabab terrorists in an operation in the eastern part of Hiiraan region, according to state media.


The army alongside local forces intensified a large-scale operation in the Hiiraan region aimed at eliminating the al-Qaeda-affiliated al-Shabaab terrorist group, the Somali news agency SONNA reported.

It said Somali security forces effectively captured several strategic locations, including Beera Yabaal, Buur Abooto, Eega Galmaay, Jidcilaan, and Cadow Gureey.

The army said its ongoing operation aims to fully liberate Somalia from extremist groups and ensure lasting peace and security for Somali citizens.

The Horn of Africa country has been plagued by insecurity for years, with the main threats emanating from al-Shabaab and the Daesh (ISIS) terror groups.

Since 2007, al-Shabaab has been fighting the Somali government and African Union peacekeepers stationed in the country.

 Jubbaland military court begins trial of officer accused of collaborating with Al-Shabaab

The Jubbaland military court on Monday commenced proceedings against Mukhtar Abdi Adan (Hoobiye), a former officer in the Jubbaland Armed Forces accused of collaborating with the Al-Shabaab militant group.  

During the hearing, the court reviewed the charges against Adan. The Attorney General of the Jubbaland Armed Forces, Colonel Ismail Abdi Ali, alleged that the accused began working with Al-Shabaab in 2021, providing sensitive information about Jubbaland's military operations to the group.

The court’s chairman, Colonel Abdullahi Mahmud Ibrahim, questioned Adan about the allegations, but the defendant denied the charges.  

The court session was adjourned, with Chairman Ibrahim announcing that further hearings would be scheduled to continue examining the case against Mukhtar Abdi Adan.  

The case underscores ongoing efforts by Jubbaland authorities to hold accountable those accused of aiding Al-Shabaab, which continues to pose significant security challenges in the region, the court said.

 Somali government launches $10 million livestock value chain fund to transform sector

Somali government, in partnership with the World Bank through the HoA DRIVE Project, launched a $10 million Livestock Value Chain Fund (LVCF) on Thursday to transform the country's livestock sector.

Gargaara Company Limited hosted the signing ceremony at Jazeera Palace in Mogadishu. The initiative addresses the challenges pastoralists, livestock producers, processors, exporters, and traders face.

The Livestock Value Chain Fund is designed to de-risk private investment, support local productive capacities, and encourage private sector involvement in building a more resilient, sustainable, and profitable livestock value chain.

Director General of the Ministry of Finance, Suleiman Sheikh Umar, emphasized that the initiative underscores the federal government's commitment to creating an inclusive economy. He noted the fund's potential to empower the country's pastoralist communities, reduce climate vulnerabilities, and stimulate economic growth.

"The partnership with Gargaara and the PFIs will ensure that these investments reach those who need them most," the Director General added.

The CEO of Gargaara Suleiman Dualeh highlighted the fund's potential to transform the sector: "The Livestock Value Chain Fund is more than just a financial tool—it is a catalyst for transformative growth. By reducing financial barriers and providing risk-sharing mechanisms, the fund will ensure that pastoralists and businesses at all levels of the value chain can thrive and innovate."

 Somalia's Intelligence Agency warns against financing Al-Shabaab

Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has warned businesses, brokers, and drivers against paying extortion money to Al-Shabaab, threatening legal action against those involved in financing the militant group.  

The intelligence agency issued the warning Tuesday, emphasizing that individuals found aiding or abetting the group will be prosecuted. The statement follows a December 4, 2024, decree from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud aimed at cutting off funding sources for the Islamist group.  

"NISA is actively monitoring all suspected activities related to financing Al-Shabaab. Those implicated will face justice," the agency said, urging citizens to collaborate with security services to enhance public safety and stability.  

In recent months, the Somali government has intensified efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab's financial networks, shutting down mobile money and bank accounts used to support the group. The crackdown is part of a broader strategy accompanying military operations against the militants. 

 

The government's campaign has included targeting both the group's operational infrastructure and its sources of income, which rely heavily on extortion from businesses and transport operators. 

 Somali army intercepts Al-Shabaab weapons shipment near Beledweyne town 

Somali National Army (SNA) forces, supported by local residents, intercepted a vehicle carrying 13 AK-47 rifles intended for the Al-Shabaab militant group during a planned operation near Beledweyne on Saturday, military officials confirmed.  

The operation took place in the Bardhere area, where troops had been tracking the vehicle for two days, according to Mahamud Hassan Ibrahim Bakay, commander of the 5th Brigade, 27th Division of the Somali National Army.  

"Behind me are weapons seized from terrorists. This vehicle and its contents were new and intended for Al-Shabaab. We had intelligence on this shipment for two days and successfully intercepted it," Commander Bakay said at a press briefing.

The vehicle's driver fled the scene before security forces could apprehend him. Both the vehicle and weapons are now in the custody of the Somali military.  

The operation comes days after Somalia's federal government formally assumed full responsibility for the security of Beledweyne and its surrounding areas from local militia forces. 

 Inter-clan conflict erupts on Hiiran-Middle Shabelle border

Several people have reportedly been killed and injured in a violent clash between two clan militias from the Hawadle and Abgaal clans along the border of Hiiran and Middle Shabelle regions in Hirshabelle State.

The confrontation erupted Saturday morning in Calaag, a rural area located on the border between the two regions, over disputes related to grazing land. 

Preliminary reports suggest multiple casualties on both sides, though the exact number remains unconfirmed.  

The situation in the area remains tense, with reports indicating that the militias are still positioned against each other. Local elders and Hirshabelle State authorities have initiated negotiations to defuse the conflict and bring the rival groups to a resolution.  

The latest clash comes several weeks after six Somali National Army soldiers from the Hawadle clan were killed in the El-Baraf district of the Middle Shabelle region due to clan-related disputes. That dispute was resolved through the efforts of federal authorities and local elders, with the perpetrators sentenced by a military court.

 Six killed in clashes between al-Shabaab and local forces in Somalia’s Hiiraan region

At least six people were killed in fierce fighting late Wednesday in Halaalay, a village near Halgan in Somalia's Hiiraan region, as local defence forces clashed with Al-Shabaab militants in the latest chapter of the country's prolonged battle against the Islamist group.

Two local militia fighters and four Al-Shabaab combatants were confirmed dead, according to a resident who spoke to Hiiraan Online. The skirmish, which erupted in the late afternoon, is part of a larger campaign by Somali federal forces and community militias to dislodge Al-Shabaab from its strongholds in central Somalia.

For weeks, sporadic clashes have flared along a corridor between Halgan and Bula Burte, disrupting daily life in an already fragile region. Al-Shabaab fighters, entrenched in positions east of the Shabelle River, have been crossing westward to launch attacks on local forces. Despite significant military pressure, the group maintains a foothold in Hiiraan, exploiting its rural terrain to resist government advances.

"These battles are taking a toll," said a local elder, who declined to be named for security reasons. "The people here want peace, but the fighting continues, and we're stuck in the middle."

 At least 40 al-Shabab militants killed in internal clash in Bakol region

At least 40 members of the al-Shabab militant group were killed in an internal clash between rival factions of the group in the Bakol region, according to Southwest State TV on Tuesday.

The regional broadcaster, citing reliable sources, reported that the fighting erupted over a dispute related to financial resources extorted from local populations. The violent confrontation occurred in El-Dhun Adegow, a rural area approximately 42 kilometers northwest of Baidoa.  

Southwest State TV also indicated that senior leaders of al-Shabab were among those killed or injured in the clash. However, the report did not provide further details about the identities or roles of the individuals involved.  

The al-Shabab group has not yet commented on the internal conflict.  

The incident highlights ongoing fractures within al-Shabab, a group that has increasingly faced pressure from Somali security forces and local militias in recent months.

 Somali police dismiss explosions in Mogadishu as fake mines planted by al-Shabab

Somali Police Force has confirmed that the series of explosions heard in Mogadishu on Monday night were caused by fake landmines planted by al-Shabab in a commercial center in Dar es Salaam district.

Residents reported hearing nine explosions in parts of the city. However, in a statement released Tuesday, police assured the public that the mines posed no threat and caused no injuries, fatalities, or property damage.  

"The mines were confirmed to be fake and did not pose any threat. There were no injuries, loss of life, or damage to property due to the incident. The police responded swiftly and took necessary measures to ensure security and maintain public confidence," the statement read.  

According to the police, al-Shabab planted the fake explosives to spread fear and disrupt public peace. Authorities emphasized that such tactics are intended to destabilize Somali society and called on the public to cooperate with security forces in maintaining peace and vigilance.  

The police also urged citizens to remain cautious about misinformation and fake news propagated by those seeking to undermine Somalia's stability.  

Security forces have intensified operations in the capital in recent weeks, leading to a significant reduction in al-Shabab attacks, including bombings and hotel assaults.   

 Somali National Army kills senior al-Shabab leaders in Mudug region

Somali National Army (SNA) forces, in collaboration with local clan militias, conducted a planned military operation in Amara district, Mudug region, on Saturday night, killing seven al-Shabab militants, including key leaders.

The commissioner of the Bahdo district, Mohamed Abdullahi Muse, confirmed the operation and killed high-ranking al-Shabab operatives responsible for the group's activities in the Mudug region.  

"The operation targeted houses in Amara and killed the leader of the Khawarij in the Mudug region, along with the leader responsible for taxation, a member from their so-called courts, and other militants. The confirmed death toll of Khawarij is seven," Muse stated.  

He added that security forces aim to fully secure the Amara district, a key area in the ongoing efforts to neutralize al-Shabab in the region.  

Reports from Amara indicate security forces are making military movements near the district. Amara, located in the southern part of the Mudug region, has been a strategic focal point in the fight against al-Shabab. 

Somali forces and militias retake key Hiiraan territories from al-Shabaab

Somali government troops, working alongside local militias, have seized key territories in the Hiiraan region from Al-Shabaab militants. The operation marks a decisive victory in the nationwide campaign to dismantle the extremist group’s strongholds.

The liberated areas include Beera Yabaal, Jibibow, Biya Madoobe, and Arooso, all located along the Shabelle River. These territories, critical to Al-Shabaab’s covert operations, lie between the districts of Buulaburte and Halgan, where the group has long maintained a presence.

“This was a well-planned mission that severely weakened the militants’ capacity to operate,” said a senior military officer involved in the operation. Officials also noted that Al-Shabaab fighters had used boats to cross the Shabelle River from western Hiiraan, an area where the group remains entrenched.

Hiiraan holds a notable place in Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab. It was in this region that local communities, tired of violence and extortion, initiated a grassroots uprising against the militants. The latest operations not only reinforce those early efforts but also highlight the growing partnership between Somali forces and local fighters.

“The cooperation is vital,” said another official. “It shows the strength of our communities when united against a common enemy.”

The operation in Hiiraan is part of a broader push to liberate areas still under Al-Shabaab control. Across Somalia, security forces are preparing for coordinated offensives to eliminate the group’s remaining strongholds.

Key leaders such as Somali National Army Commander Odowaa Yusuf Raage and National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) Chief Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbaloolshe spearhead efforts in Hiiraan. Their focus now shifts to western parts of the region, where Al-Shabaab still wields significant influence.

 

Federal delegation secures agreement to transfer Beledweyne security to Somali government forces

A federal government delegation led by Army Chief General Odawaa Yusuf Raage and National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) Director Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbaloolshe has reached an agreement with leaders of the Hawadle clan to transfer control of Beledweyne's security to Somali federal forces. 

During a meeting on Tuesday afternoon with traditional elders, intellectuals, youth, and women from the Hawadle clan, the delegation emphasized the need for federal oversight to restore stability and enhance governance in the town, which has long faced security challenges. 

Sanbaloolshe appealed directly to the clan, urging them to entrust the government with the town's safety, "People question my ability to secure Beledweyne, asking how I can protect the nation if this city remains unstable. We cannot accept militias carrying weapons in the city or roadblocks impeding progress. It is time to entrust security to federal forces."

Minister of Petroleum and Minerals Dahir Shire Mohamed emphasized, "Beledweyne's current situation is untenable. Government centers must be cleared, and armed groups consolidated to pave the way for lasting peace and improved services. Security must precede political resolution."

General Odawaa Yusuf Raage, Commander of the Somali National Army, reminded the Hawadle community of their historical role in resisting al-Shabab militant group. "You are known for your resilience and sacrifices for this nation. This struggle must now translate into a unified effort to stabilize Beledweyne. Prolonged insecurity only hinders progress."

In response, the Hawadle clan leaders agreed to transfer security responsibilities to the federal government while calling for ongoing discussions to address broader concerns. 

The decision comes amid ongoing disputes among local security forces, forces loyal to the Hirshabelle and Hiiraan State administrations, and other clan factions vying for control of the town. These rivalries have contributed to insecurity, including looting and the proliferation of illegal checkpoints. 

The federal government advocates ending such instability in its broader strategy to establish nationwide security and governance. However, the initiative's success will depend on sustained collaboration with local communities and leaders. 

 

 US-Somali operation kills 10 al-Shabab militants

The Somali government said 10 al-Shabab militants were killed in an operation conducted in collaboration with the United States military.

In a statement, Somalia’s information ministry said the operation took place in Beer Xaani town, approximately 60 northwest of Kismayo.

The statement was issued on Sunday but did not specify when the operation took place.

“The operation destroyed a group of Khawaarij [deviants] who were planning to launch an attack. No civilians were harmed during the operation” which, according to the statement, was conducted “with the help of US strikes.”

The United States military on Monday confirmed the killing of senior al-Shabab leader Mohamed Mire in an airstrike on Dec. 24 near the town of Kunyo Barrow in Lower Shabelle region.

The killing was initially reported by the Somali government two days after the operation.

“Mire, also known as Abu Abdirahman, was responsible for al-Shabaab’s regional governance in Somalia for the last 15 years. In addition to being one of al-Shabaab's longest-serving members, Mire served as the interior minister and played a key role in the group's strategic decision-making,” the United States military command in Africa, AFRICOM said in a statement.

AFRICOM said it cannot disclose specifics of the mission, stating only that no civilians were harmed.

“The command will continue to assess the results of the operation and provide additional information as appropriate,” said U.S. Marine Corps Gen. Michael Langley, AFRICOM commander, according to the statement.

“As our National Security Strategy outlines, America remains steadfast in countering the evolving threats of terrorism,” Langley said.

Al-Shabab, which has been fighting the Somali government for more than 15 years, controls large areas in southern Somalia and pockets in the central region of the country.

 Puntland mobilizes clans to counter rising ISIS threat

Puntland is enlisting the support of clans in the Bari region to combat the growing threat of ISIS, which has entrenched itself in parts of the region. The mobilization effort, spearheaded by First Deputy Speaker Mohamed Bari Shire, follows a deadly attack in Dharjaale village that exposed significant security vulnerabilities.

On December 31, 2024, Puntland security forces thwarted an ISIS assault on a military base in Dharjaale, killing 12 militants, including foreign fighters. The attack, marked by a suicide bombing and intense combat, leftover 20 soldiers dead and more than 30 injured. Deputy Speaker Mohamed Bari Shire narrowly survived the attack, which highlighted the increasing audacity of ISIS operations in the region.

Traditional leaders from remote eastern villages, particularly near Al Miskaad, have been urged to collaborate with Puntland authorities to drive ISIS militants out of their territories. During meetings with tribal elders, Shire described Bari as a "predator's haven," overrun by ISIS and Al-Shabaab. He stressed the urgent need for grassroots unity to reclaim the region from extremist groups.

 Six SNA soldiers killed in El-Baraf district buried in Beledweyne town

 Six federal government soldiers killed by clan militia fighters in the Middle Shabelle region were laid to rest on Sunday in Beledweyne, the capital of the Hiran region.

The funeral followed a burial agreement reached by Hawadle and Abgal traditional elders despite lingering tensions over justice for the slain soldiers. 

The soldiers, identified as Abdikafi Ali Cabdulle, Bile Xasan Cabdulle Sabriye, Abdi Abdullahi Adan, Farhaan Xasan Ali Cadow, Abshir Hussein Jimcaale, and Muhiyidiin Cabdulle Wehliye, were killed in El-Baraf district while on leave, travelling to visit their families in Hiiraan region. 

The burial was attended by prominent officials, including the Director of the Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), Abdullahi Sanbalolshe, army chief General Odowaa Yusuf Raagge, and traditional elders and family members. 

The Somali military court has issued arrest warrants for 14 suspects connected to the killings, while Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre has ruled out resolving the case through clan negotiations. "Accountability and justice are paramount," the prime minister emphasized in recent remarks. 

Initially, elders in Beledweyne had resisted burying the soldiers until the perpetrators were apprehended. However, the agreement to proceed with the funerals is seen as a significant step toward de-escalating the situation while maintaining public pressure for justice to be served. 

 Islamic State claims responsibility for attack on Somalia's Puntland military base

The Islamic State group on Wednesday claimed responsibility for an attack on a military base in Somalia's northeastern region of Puntland a day earlier, the group posted on its Telegram channel.

In its statement, Islamic State said the attack was conducted by 12 militants and two booby-trapped vehicles, adding that it killed around 22 military personnel from the Puntland forces and injured dozens of others.

Somali authorities could not immediately be reached for comment.

On Tuesday, security forces in Somalia said they had repulsed an attack by Islamic State suicide bombers on a military base in Puntland, according to the local state broadcaster and a military official.

Captain Yusuf Mohamed, an officer in Puntland's counter-terrorism forces, told Reuters on Tuesday that nine suicide bombers had been killed and several soldiers had been injured, near the town of Dharjaale in the Bari region.

The group was officially recognised as the Somali province of Islamic State in 2017 and has been based in the mountainous areas of Puntland. For many years, it was considered a minor security threat in the Horn of Africa country compared with al Shabaab, which controls swathes of southern Somalia.

In recent years, however, the Somali franchise has refashioned itself as an important part of the jihadist group's worldwide network, with its head, Abdulqadir Mumin, being named its global leader by some media outlets.

Security analysts say Islamic State in Somalia has grown in strength because of an influx of foreign fighters and improved revenue through the extortion of local businesses, becoming the group's "nerve centre" in Africa.