The Somali National Army and local forces have achieved significant victories against Al-Shabaab in central and southern Somalia, particularly through recent operations yielding substantial militant casualties. Support from international forces has aided these efforts, and agreements for further troop deployments are underway to maintain momentum in combating this persistent threat.
In recent months, the Somali National Army (SNA) alongside local forces has achieved significant victories against Al-Shabaab in central and southern Somalia. This collaboration is crucial as an increasing number of locals respond to the call for stability, resulting in the recovery of key strategic areas of the country.
Over the past two months, sustained military operations have led to substantial pressure on Al-Shabaab, effectively pushing the group towards submission. The US Africa Command and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) have provided essential support in these efforts.
In Middle Shabelle, a particularly successful operation at Sumadale resulted in the elimination of nearly 30 Al-Shabaab fighters, who were planning an attack on government forces. A state media report confirmed this, citing embedded journalist Sadam Abdulle, who stated, “National and local forces dealt a major blow to Kharijite militants in Sumadale, Middle Shabelle, today, killing over 30 fighters.”
Another confrontation at Awdheegle saw the SNA thwarting Al-Shabaab’s attempts to invade, resulting in notable militant losses. This operation took place in the Awdheegle District of Lower Shabelle and the nearby Buursha Sheekh area.
Additionally, an operation carried out on Friday evening targeted and dismantled a militant gathering site in Middle Shabelle’s Labada Garas area, where all present enemy fighters were successfully neutralized.
In Bakool, a joint operation conducted by the SNA and local troops led to the death of over 40 Al-Shabaab fighters, underscoring the government’s ongoing commitment to eradicating this group, which has been a persistent threat for nearly two decades.
The Somali government has also finalized deployment agreements for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, allowing troops from Kenya, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Uganda to operate within its borders, although discussions with Burundi regarding troop numbers are still ongoing.
The collaboration between the Somali National Army and local forces has intensified efforts against Al-Shabaab, resulting in substantial militant casualties and the recovery of strategic areas. The backing of international forces further strengthens Somalia’s resolve to restore stability. Continued agreements for troop deployments from various nations highlight a unified front against the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab. The commitment to defeating this group, which has troubled Somalia for nearly two decades, remains a priority for the government.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
