The Somali National Army (SNA) conducted a military operation on the outskirts of Baidoa in Southwest State, resulting in the killing of 50 al-Shabaab fighters and injuries to others. The Ministry of Defence reported that the forces destroyed technical battle vehicles, weapons caches, and operational equipment belonging to the militant group during the operation. Additionally, the ministry accused armed militia linked to the former Southwest State leader of collaborating with the al-Shabaab militants.
Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for an ambush where they allegedly killed two senior SNA commanders and seized military transport vehicles. Last month, Somali armed forces, with international support, eliminated 22 al-Shabaab militants, including a commander, in targeted operations in the country’s southern region. The Ministry of Defence expressed gratitude to international partners for their support in advancing peace and stability in Somalia through these operations.
The ministry emphasized its commitment to intensifying operations as part of a broader strategy to eliminate al-Shabaab terrorists and maintain stability in the region. Despite being driven out of Mogadishu in 2011, the extremist group continues to operate in rural areas, carrying out ambushes and planting landmines.
