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The Somali National Armed Forces have carried out a series of successful operations in the Bakool and Bay regions, eliminating several senior al-Shabaab leaders, according to a statement from the Ministry of Defense on Sunday.
Among those killed was Mohamed Abdi Mohamed Nur, widely known as Goofoow, a top al-Shabaab figure who had orchestrated multiple attacks targeting civilians. The ministry said Goofoow was killed in a precision operation in Abal, a key village about 21 kilometers south of Hudur, the capital of Bakool region. The forces also recovered weapons and documents during the mission, which reportedly contained detailed plans for future attacks meant to destabilize the region.
In a separate operation, Somali forces also killed two other senior al-Shabaab operatives identified as Yahye, known by his alias Abu Khalid, and Sharif Amir. The statement said Abu Khalid played a major role in organizing terrorist attacks, while Amir was injured in the fighting and later succumbed to his wounds.
The Defense Ministry reaffirmed that the Somali military will continue its efforts to dismantle al-Shabaab networks and ensure that “no safe haven will be allowed for terrorists or their remnants.” It added that operations will intensify until the entire country is liberated from extremist threats and peace is fully restored.
These latest offensives are part of a broader military campaign launched by the Somali government to eliminate al-Shabaab militants who have waged an insurgency for more than 16 years. The group has repeatedly targeted government officials, security forces, and civilians across the country.
The new operations follow a government announcement that 220 precision airstrikes have been conducted since February this year, resulting in the deaths of at least 868 al-Shabaab fighters. The intensified air campaign, supported by international security partners, has focused on terrorist strongholds in southern and central Somalia, as well as the northeastern Bari region.
In one of the most notable strikes late last month, a senior al-Shabaab commander, Mohamud Abdi Hamud—also known as Jacfar Gurey—was killed in Bu’aale town in the Middle Juba region. Gurey was one of the group’s founding members and served as its so-called intelligence chief, making his death a significant blow to the organization’s leadership structure.
The Somali National Army and regional security forces, particularly in Puntland, have also stepped up their coordination in combating the insurgency. Officials say these operations aim not only to weaken al-Shabaab’s command but also to create safe conditions for rebuilding communities affected by years of violence.
The Defense Ministry emphasized that the government remains committed to restoring security, stability, and public trust throughout the country. The ongoing campaign reflects Somalia’s determination to reclaim areas under militant control and ensure lasting peace for its citizens.