Historic Blow to Al-Shabab as Somali Forces Repel Deadly Attack on Kudhaa

Historic Blow to Al-Shabab as Somali Forces Repel Deadly Attack on Kudhaa

Mogadishu — Somali security forces have delivered one of the most significant setbacks to Al-Shabab in recent months, killing approximately 250 militants during a foiled assault on the coastal town of Kudhaa in the Lower Juba region.

Hassan Nur Abdi, governor of Badhaadhe district, confirmed on Saturday that government and allied forces successfully repelled the attack on Kudhaa Island and surrounding areas. “The enemy attacked us, and we pushed them back decisively,” Abdi said. “The confirmed death toll among Al-Shabab fighters is now 250. Additional bodies are still being recovered, but this figure has been verified.”

The operation also resulted in the capture of eight militants and the destruction of at least eight combat vehicles, which Abdi described as “irreparable” losses for the group. He added that the scale of the defeat would significantly weaken Al-Shabab’s operational capabilities in Jubbaland. “The Khawarij have suffered a crushing blow here,” Abdi stated, using a term commonly applied by Somali officials to describe Al-Shabab. “I do not believe they will be able to return to Jubbaland areas in the near future.”

The attack on Kudhaa followed a coordinated effort by Al-Shabab to overrun the town. Somali forces, including elite Danab units and regional Jubbaland forces, responded with sustained ground operations supported by international partners. Authorities say follow-up pursuit operations are ongoing to prevent surviving militants from regrouping.

The security situation in Kudhaa has now stabilized, and displaced civilians are gradually returning to their homes. Al-Shabab has not commented on the reported casualty figures, a reflection of the group’s rare acknowledgment of losses on this scale.

The battle in Kudhaa highlights the intensifying Somali government operations across Lower and Middle Juba, aimed at dismantling militant strongholds and securing key coastal and rural areas. With this decisive victory, Somali forces have demonstrated both resilience and growing effectiveness in their fight against terrorism, sending a strong message to Al-Shabab and reinforcing stability in the region.