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Jubaland security forces say they have killed more than 60 al-Shabab fighters, including senior members, during a four-day military operation in the Lagta Hola–Wajeer area of Badhaadhe district in Lower Juba.
According to the Jubaland Intelligence and Security Agency, the operation focused on militant hideouts in the “Black Sea” forest, a heavily wooded area that has long been used by al-Shabab as a base for planning and launching attacks in the region. Officials described the area as one of the group’s key strongholds in Lower Juba.
The offensive was led by Jubaland’s security director, Mohamed Ahmed Sabriye, also known as “Basaam.” Regional authorities said the operation received air support from international partners, which helped security forces strike key militant positions more effectively.
Security officials reported that the bodies of 60 fighters were recovered from the operation sites. They also said a large amount of weapons and equipment was seized. The recovered items included land mines, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), communication devices, and other military supplies believed to have been used to carry out attacks.
State media outlet Jubaland TV reported that several al-Shabab facilities were destroyed during the offensive. These included logistics centers, weapons storage sites, bomb-making locations, and communication hubs. Authorities believe these sites played a major role in coordinating attacks against civilians and security forces in the region.
Officials added that some of the targeted facilities were linked to recent attacks, including an assault in the Kudhaa area. They said dismantling these bases would significantly weaken the group’s ability to organize and launch future operations in Lower Juba.
Al-Shabaab, which is affiliated with Al-Qaeda, has been fighting Somalia’s federal government for more than 15 years. The group continues to carry out bombings, ambushes, and other attacks, particularly in southern and central parts of the country. Although Somali forces and their allies have regained territory in recent years, al-Shabab still controls or influences some rural areas.
Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe, the President of Jubaland, praised the security forces for what he described as a major success. Speaking from Mogadishu, where he is holding political consultations, Madobe commended the troops for delivering a strong blow to the militant group. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to continuing operations until al-Shabab is fully removed from Lower Juba.
Regional authorities say the latest operation is part of ongoing efforts to improve security and protect civilians in Jubaland. They emphasized that clearing militant bases from forested and rural areas remains a top priority, as such locations have often been used to hide weapons, train fighters, and plan attacks.
While officials described the operation as a significant victory, they acknowledged that the fight against al-Shabab is ongoing. Security forces are expected to continue targeted offensives in areas believed to host remaining militants.
The developments highlight the continued collaboration between local security forces and international partners in the broader campaign to stabilize Somalia and reduce the threat posed by extremist groups.