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The Somali National Army (SNA), supported by international partners, recently carried out a successful military operation against the Al-Shabaab militant group in the Buurta Cadayga area, located near El-Baraf district in the Middle Shabelle region.
According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Somali Ministry of Information, the operation targeted a specific location used by Al-Shabaab to plan and coordinate attacks against local communities and government forces. During the mission, at least 13 Al-Shabaab members were killed. Among them were senior leaders of the group, while several others were injured.
The military offensive also included airstrikes, which destroyed a hidden weapons storage facility. The cache had been stockpiled for use in future attacks. This destruction significantly weakens the group’s ability to carry out planned operations in the region.
The Somali government praised the efforts of the national army and its international allies, emphasizing their commitment to defeating Al-Shabaab and restoring peace to the country. “The Somali government remains committed to eradicating Al-Shabaab through coordinated efforts with the public and our international allies,” the Ministry of Information said.
This operation is part of ongoing efforts by Somali authorities to push back against Al-Shabaab, which has continued to launch attacks in various parts of the country. The militant group, which has ties to al-Qaeda, has been active in Somalia for over a decade, fighting to overthrow the government and impose its strict version of Islamic law.
Recently, Al-Shabaab has made some territorial gains in Middle Shabelle, raising concerns among Somali officials and the public. One of the key areas the group has reportedly taken control of is the Aden Yabaal district. This region is considered strategically important, and the group’s growing presence there has alarmed security experts.
In recent weeks, Al-Shabaab even released footage of a deadly attack carried out against government forces in Aden Yabaal, showing the seriousness of the threat the group continues to pose.
Despite these challenges, Somali forces have stepped up their operations, often working closely with international allies, including the African Union forces and Western partners. These joint missions are focused on removing the group from its strongholds and preventing it from launching more attacks on civilians and government targets.
The recent success in Buurta Cadayga is seen as a positive step forward. Military analysts say eliminating senior members and destroying stockpiled weapons can create confusion within the group and delay future attacks.
The government is also urging local communities to support ongoing operations by reporting suspicious activities and cooperating with security forces. Public cooperation, officials say, plays a key role in defeating the insurgents and protecting vulnerable areas from future attacks.
As the Somali National Army continues its operations, the government says it will remain vigilant and continue to work with all available partners to bring lasting peace and stability to the country.
The situation in the Middle Shabelle region remains tense, but officials believe that consistent pressure on Al-Shabaab through targeted military actions can weaken the group’s influence over time.