Middle Shabelle, Somalia (AQRI.net)– Somali security forces have killed at least 27 al-Shabab militants during a major military operation in the Middle Shabelle region, local officials said late Wednesday.
The offensive targeted key al-Shabab hideouts in the region, sparking heavy clashes that led to a significant blow to the militant group, which has waged a brutal insurgency in Somalia for over a decade. The operation was part of a broader government push to reclaim territories controlled by al-Shabab and diminish their influence across central and southern Somalia.
Somali military sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said they had acted on intelligence that pinpointed the location of the militants, resulting in a pre-dawn raid. “Our forces conducted a well-coordinated assault, targeting al-Shabab fighters in their stronghold, and we have eliminated 27 combatants,” one military official confirmed.
Al-Shabab, which pledges allegiance to al-Qaeda, has been responsible for a series of devastating attacks in Somalia and neighboring countries, repeatedly targeting civilians, government officials, and military forces. The group continues to pose one of the greatest security threats in the Horn of Africa.
This latest offensive comes amid growing momentum by Somali security forces, fueled by increased international support. Both African Union forces and U.S. military advisors are actively assisting Somali troops as part of a broader effort to stabilize the war-torn East African country.
Over the past several months, Somali forces have launched a series of assaults aimed at dismantling the group’s network of control over vast swathes of rural areas where they exert influence through taxation and intimidation.
In a statement, the Somali government praised the successful operation and reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating al-Shabab. “This is part of our ongoing mission to ensure that Somalia is free of terror,” the government said, calling the deaths of the militants a “significant victory” in their campaign.
While the government has made gains, experts warn that al-Shabab remains resilient, capable of regrouping and launching retaliatory strikes. The militants have previously retaliated against such offensives with deadly bombings targeting military and civilian infrastructure.
The Middle Shabelle region, situated north of Mogadishu, is a key battleground as the Somali government attempts to restore order in areas that for years have been beyond its control. The region’s strategic importance stems from its proximity to the capital, Mogadishu, and its roles in both agriculture and trade.
The UN and international partners have urged Somali authorities to continue tightening security efforts while protecting civilians during military operations. Humanitarian organizations have also raised concerns over the displacement of residents caused by ongoing fighting, adding layers to Somalia’s complex crisis of instability.
AQRI.net will continue to monitor developments on the ground as the Somali government intensifies its campaign against al-Shabab.
