Somalia Kills Over 30 al-Shabaab Fighters in Middle Shabelle Op

(MENAFN) Somalia’s intelligence agency said Tuesday that coordinated operations in the Middle Shabelle region killed more than 33 al-Shabaab militants, in a significant blow to the group’s operational network.

The Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) said the raids were conducted with support from international partners, targeting key gatherings and infrastructure used by the militants. (Note: removing Arabic entirely in next line)

According to an official statement, several militant hideouts were destroyed, including a site used by senior leaders and fighters.

The agency said the strike occurred while key figures were actively organizing fighters and planning attacks.

“Vehicles used for transporting and mobilizing fighters were burned, effectively dismantling their logistical network,” it said.

NISA added that the operation followed intelligence indicating that around 90 militants had gathered in the area to prepare activities threatening national security.

“The planned actions significantly weakened the extremists’ capacity and neutralized their imminent threat,” the statement noted.

Intensified Offensive
Al-Shabaab has waged an insurgency against Somalia’s government for more than 16 years, frequently targeting civilians, officials, and security forces.

Since July, Somali forces — backed by the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia and other partners — have stepped up military operations in support of the federal government.

The mission’s mandate was renewed for another year in December under a UN Security Council resolution backed by the United Kingdom, extending authorization through Dec. 31.

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