Somali National Army Strikes Al-Shabab in Middle Shabelle, Eliminating 17 Militants

Somali National Army Strikes Al-Shabab in Middle Shabelle, Eliminating 17 Militants

The Somali National Army (SNA), working closely with international partners, conducted a successful overnight airstrike in the Middle Shabelle region, killing 17 militants and destroying weapons and vehicles used in attacks on civilians, military officials confirmed Tuesday.

The operation targeted the Jabad Godone area, which the SNA described as a strategic planning site for militant operations. According to the military, this location was primarily used to organize bombings aimed at civilians and public infrastructure.

Targeting Al-Shabab's Operational Capacity

In an official statement, the Somali National Army noted that the strike eliminated fighters linked to the al-Qaida-affiliated extremist group Al-Shabab, referred to locally by officials as the Khawarij. The military added that the operation also destroyed equipment and vehicles critical to the group’s ability to carry out attacks, significantly disrupting their operational capacity in central Somalia.

Officials emphasized that this strike was part of a broader campaign to weaken Al-Shabab and prevent further attacks on civilians, government officials, and security forces. "Our mission remains focused on dismantling militant networks and restoring security for Somali communities," a military spokesperson said.

The Ongoing Fight for Stability

Middle Shabelle has long been a critical battleground in Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabab. Despite sustained pressure from Somali forces, supported by international partners, the group continues to exploit rural areas as staging grounds for attacks. This persistent threat underscores the importance of coordinated military operations, including airstrikes and ground offensives.

The Somali government has stressed that intensifying such operations is essential to degrading the group’s capabilities, protecting civilians, and securing key regions. The SNA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining planned operations until stability and security are fully restored.

The successful strike in Jabad Godone illustrates the ongoing determination of Somali forces and their partners to confront extremist threats head-on, ensuring that militant networks face continued disruption across the country.