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The Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has confirmed that it carried out a planned security operation on Wednesday in areas on the outskirts of Afgooye district in the Lower Shabelle region, resulting in the death of a senior member of the al-Shabaab militant group. According to the agency, the operation was part of ongoing efforts to protect civilians and security personnel from planned attacks in the region.
In a statement released after the operation, NISA said the individual who was killed played a key role in preparing and planting landmines that targeted both government forces and ordinary residents. The agency explained that these explosive devices have been a major threat in Afgooye and nearby areas, often causing deaths, injuries, and fear among communities trying to go about their daily lives.
NISA described the mission as a carefully planned and targeted operation aimed at neutralizing six individuals believed to be actively involved in planning attacks and destabilizing security in Afgooye district and its surroundings. While the operation focused on multiple suspects, the agency confirmed that only one militant was killed during the mission. The statement did not indicate whether the remaining individuals managed to escape or were apprehended.
According to NISA, the operation was carried out with precision to avoid harm to civilians. During the mission, security forces recovered an AK-47 rifle that was allegedly in the possession of the militant who was killed. The agency said this recovery further supports claims that the suspect was directly involved in armed activities linked to al-Shabaab.
The intelligence agency did not release the name of the individual who was killed, citing security reasons. It also did not provide details about whether there were any additional injuries or casualties during the operation. Such limited disclosure is common in security operations, especially when investigations are still ongoing or when releasing information could compromise future missions.
Afgooye district, located west of Mogadishu, has frequently been targeted by al-Shabaab due to its strategic importance and proximity to the capital. The group has often used roadside bombs and landmines in the area, posing serious risks to security forces, local officials, and civilians. In recent months, Somali security agencies have increased operations in Lower Shabelle as part of a broader campaign to weaken the militant group’s presence.
NISA emphasized that the operation is part of a wider effort by the federal government to restore stability and security across the country. The agency said it remains committed to tracking down individuals involved in planning and carrying out attacks, particularly those who target civilians.
In its statement, NISA reassured the public that similar operations will continue until peace and security are fully restored. The agency urged residents to cooperate with security forces by sharing information that could help prevent attacks and save lives.
The Somali government has repeatedly stated that defeating al-Shabaab requires both military action and community support. Security agencies say intelligence-led operations like the one carried out near Afgooye are crucial in disrupting planned attacks before they are executed.
As Somalia continues its fight against militant violence, authorities say protecting civilians remains a top priority. NISA concluded by reaffirming its determination to maintain pressure on al-Shabaab and to work with other security institutions to ensure safer communities across the country.