Somali National Army Eliminates Senior Al-Shabaab Commander in Bakool Region
On Sunday, Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) achieved a significant victory in the ongoing fight against terrorism by eliminating a senior Al-Shabaab commander, Hussein Moallim Hassan, also known as Magaalabeen. The operation was conducted near Buurdhuuxunle, approximately 17 km north of Waajid in the Bakool region, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Defense.
Magaalabeen was one of Al-Shabaab’s most wanted leaders and had been a key figure in the group for more than 15 years. He played a central role in planning and executing deadly attacks across Somalia, including in the regions of Hiiraan, Middle and Lower Shabelle, Mudug, Galgaduud, Bay, Bakool, and Gedo.
Throughout his long involvement in the militant organization, he held multiple senior positions:
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Operational commander in Bay, Bakool, and Gedo.
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Head of taxation in Bakool.
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Chief of intelligence in the Shabelle regions and Hiiraan.
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Deputy to Fu’ad Mohamed Shangole, Al-Shabaab’s propaganda chief.
The Ministry of Defense declared that his elimination marks a major blow to Al-Shabaab’s leadership and operational structure. This achievement comes as government forces intensify counterterrorism operations in Southwest state, aimed at dismantling the group’s command network and restoring stability to affected communities.
The Somali National Army emphasized that this operation reflects the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to protect civilians, bring peace, and ensure the total defeat of terrorism across the nation.
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This is really good news for Somalia. Magaalabeen wasn’t just any fighter—he was one of the top leaders planning attacks for years
ReplyDeleteTaking him out shows how serious the army is about protecting people and breaking down Al-Shabaab’s network.
It feels like a big step toward a safer future.
What happened near Waajid gives people hope. For years, this man caused so much pain across Somalia, and now he’s gone.
ReplyDeleteIt shows the Somali army is getting stronger and that terrorism can be defeated with persistence and courage.