Somali National Army Launches Successful Security Operation Between Burhakaba and Baidoa

 

Somali National Army Launches Successful Security Operation Between Burhakaba and Baidoa

The Somali National Army (SNA) has carried out a targeted security operation against suspected Al-Shabaab hideouts located between the towns of Burhakaba and Baidoa in the Bay region. The mission, conducted by the 8th Battalion of the 60th Division, aimed to disrupt the militant group’s presence in areas long believed to be used as safe havens and staging points.

According to military officials, the operation focused on clearing zones where Al-Shabaab militants were known to intimidate civilians and obstruct movement in the region. Several locations used by the group to harass residents were identified and neutralized during the operation.

One of the key achievements of the mission was the dismantling of multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted along major routes. These explosives had posed a serious threat to civilians, commercial transport, and security forces operating in the area.

In a statement, the Federal Government of Somalia emphasized that the operation was designed to “neutralize terrorist elements and foil plots targeting innocent civilians.” The removal of roadside bombs, the government added, is a crucial step toward safeguarding lives and ensuring the free movement of people and goods.

Lieutenant Colonel Ali Mohamed Adam confirmed the success of the mission and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to stabilizing the Bay region. He noted that security forces will continue their operations to protect local communities and weaken the foothold of Al-Shabaab.

For more than a decade, Al-Shabaab—an extremist group aligned with Al-Qaeda—has waged an insurgency against the Somali federal government, frequently targeting civilians, security personnel, and critical infrastructure.

This latest operation marks another important step in the ongoing national effort to restore security and stability across Somalia.