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The Somali National Army (SNA) has showcased its latest success against Al-Shabaab following a fierce battle in El-Dheer district, Galgaduud region. On Saturday afternoon, army officials presented weapons seized from the militants and paraded two captured fighters before the media, signaling a significant victory for government forces.
The captured militants, who appeared in handcuffs, were presented to journalists under tight security. Military officers assured the public that the prisoners would be handled in line with the law before being transferred to the Military Court for trial. This move was intended not only to demonstrate accountability but also to send a strong message that the government remains committed to the rule of law even in the face of insurgent violence.
Senior military leaders attended the display to highlight the importance of the victory. Among them were Colonel Mohamed Dhagaweyne, commander of the 21st Division of the SNA, and Saahid Jama Farah Jareere, commander of the 1st Division of the elite Gorgor Commandos. Their presence underscored the army’s determination to continue battling Al-Shabaab until the group is fully defeated.
During the event, the SNA also celebrated the bravery of its soldiers. In particular, officers presented a cash reward to one soldier who played a critical role in preventing further bloodshed. This soldier managed to stop a vehicle loaded with explosives that Al-Shabaab had intended to use in capturing the district. Officials described his action as a decisive moment that helped secure the town and prevent large-scale destruction.
The battle in El-Dheer was intense and lasted several hours. District Commissioner Abdirahman Ahmed Omar revealed that the number of Al-Shabaab fighters killed in the clashes has climbed to 71 after authorities discovered more bodies of the attackers. This high casualty figure highlights the scale of the fighting and the determination of Somali forces to repel the assault.
However, the victory came at a cost for government troops. According to the Ministry of Defence, six Somali soldiers lost their lives in the battle, while 14 others sustained injuries. Officials praised the fallen as heroes who sacrificed themselves to protect their community, while those injured are receiving treatment.
The latest fighting in El-Dheer is part of ongoing military operations aimed at weakening Al-Shabaab’s presence in central Somalia. Over the past months, Somali forces, often working alongside community militias, have been pushing the militants out of their hideouts and reclaiming towns and villages. These operations are seen as essential in restoring peace and stability to areas that have long been under threat from insurgent activity.
The events in El-Dheer also highlight the resilience of both the Somali army and the local population. Despite repeated attempts by Al-Shabaab to destabilize the district, government forces and residents have continued to resist. By capturing militants alive, recovering weapons, and preventing the use of explosives, the army has not only demonstrated its growing capabilities but also boosted the confidence of civilians who depend on them for security.
Military officials reiterated their commitment to continue pursuing Al-Shabaab until the group is dismantled. They stressed that while the battle in El-Dheer was an important success, the fight against extremism is far from over. The government urged citizens to remain vigilant and to cooperate with security agencies in identifying potential threats.
For many Somalis, the victory in El-Dheer offers a glimmer of hope. It shows that with persistence, discipline, and unity, the threat posed by Al-Shabaab can be contained. The bravery of soldiers on the frontlines and the resilience of communities in conflict zones remain key to ensuring that peace is eventually restored across the country.