Somali security forces, with support from international partners, conducted operations in southern Somalia, resulting in the deaths of nine al-Shabaab militants. The operations, carried out in Kunyo Barrow and the Tugarey area of the Lower Shabelle region, also led to the destruction of six generators used by the militants for making mines and explosives. These actions are part of continuous efforts to dismantle terrorist bases and disrupt their activities to prevent attacks, according to the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).
The first operation targeted an al-Shabaab facility in Kunyo Barrow, where large machines for manufacturing mines and explosives were housed, resulting in the killing of six terrorists. Additionally, three other militants hiding in the forest were eliminated during an operation in the Tugarey area. Despite being driven out of Mogadishu in 2011, al-Shabaab militants are still active in rural areas, engaging in ambushes and planting landmines.
In a separate development, the African Union mission disclosed the capture of a senior al-Shabaab commander, Salaad Cusmaan Macalin, also known as Sahm, during a joint operation with the Somali National Armed Forces in the southern region. The mission revealed that Salaad, aged 40, was apprehended while scouting defensive positions for a potential attack. He is considered a significant operational leader within al-Shabaab, involved in planning and executing militant activities in Mogadishu and its environs.
The successful operation was commended by AUSSOM Sector One Commander Jackson Kayanja, who praised the joint forces for their vigilance and professionalism. Kayanja also called on local leaders and communities to actively support security forces in countering terrorist threats and enhancing stability across Somalia.
