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Somali forces liberate key areas in Middle Shabelle from Al-Shabaab
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    Saturday November 30, 2024


    Somali government forces advance through the bush in Middle Shabelle as part of a military operation to reclaim areas from Al-Shabaab militants. (Photo: NISA)

    Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali government forces, supported by elite military units, have captured territory in the Middle Shabelle region.

    In a coordinated operation led by the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) and the Gorgor Commando unit, government forces liberated the Shanloow area and several nearby villages that had been under Al-Shabaab control. Officials confirmed that the militants had used these areas as bases for launching attacks and intimidating local communities.

    A NISA spokesperson described the operation as a major success, revealing that multiple Al-Shabaab fighters, including senior operatives, were killed. While exact casualty figures were not provided, the official said the operation struck a blow to the group's operational capacity.

    "Our forces destroyed several bases that Al-Shabaab used to oppress civilians and coordinate their terror campaigns," the spokesperson said, adding that the operation is part of the federal government's strategy to liberate Somalia from militant control.

    Middle Shabelle's location makes it a key battleground in Somalia's efforts to eradicate Al-Shabaab. Situated near Mogadishu and vital transport routes, the region has been a stronghold for the group, which has exploited it to project power and disrupt governance.

    The Somali government, supported by regional forces and international allies, has intensified its campaign against Al-Shabaab, focusing on reclaiming key territories and dismantling the group's infrastructure. While this operation is a significant step forward, defence analysts caution that sustained efforts will be required to consolidate gains and prevent militants from regrouping.

    The campaign against Al-Shabaab is one of Somalia's most critical security challenges. For over a decade, the group has maintained its grip over rural areas, leveraging guerrilla tactics to resist federal forces. 

    The federal government faces a daunting challenge: securing newly reclaimed territories and addressing the deep-seated issues of instability, including frail institutions and widespread economic hardship.

     





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