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.