Tuesday February 25, 2025
Hirshabelle President and military commanders visiting recently liberated areas in Middle Shabelle region
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali security forces, in coordination with the Somali National Army (SNA), have carried out a series of airstrikes targeting Al-Shabab strongholds in the Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions, killing 48 militants, including senior commanders, according to the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA).
The coordinated strikes hit key locations in Daarul-Nimca and Al-Kowthar in Middle Shabelle, as well as Beerayabaal in Hiiraan. NISA stated that the operations aimed to weaken the militant group’s leadership and disrupt its operational capabilities.
The first strike, conducted in Daarul-Nimca, targeted two Al-Shabab locations, killing 17 fighters, including high-ranking operatives. The second attack in Al-Kowthar resulted in the deaths of 19 militants, with their vehicles and equipment destroyed. A final strike in Beerayabaal, Hiiraan, eliminated 12 additional Al-Shabab members.
“These operations are part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts aimed at eliminating the militant threat,” NISA said in its statement. “Military vehicles used by the group were also destroyed in the strikes.”
The strikes come as Somalia's federal and regional governments intensify efforts to dismantle Al-Shabab’s networks in central and southern Somalia. Security forces, with support from international partners, have ramped up operations in recent months, particularly in Middle Shabelle, Hiiraan, and Galmudug, where insurgents have maintained a presence.
A security analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that targeted airstrikes are key to disrupting Al-Shabab’s activities. “Precision strikes like these have been effective in reducing the group’s leadership structure and its ability to plan attacks,” the expert noted.""
Historically, the Somali National Army (SNA) and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) have had limited airstrike capabilities, often relying on international partners like the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) for aerial support against militant groups such as al-Shabaab. While Somali authorities have claimed responsibility for airstrikes in the past, such instances have been rare and often lack independent verification. The latest press release from NISA did not specify whether these strikes were carried out independently or with external assistance.
NISA reiterated that it will sustain military pressure against Al-Shabab and continue targeting high-value operatives. “The Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency, in collaboration with the Somali National Army, remains committed to eliminating the terrorist threat,” the agency stated.
The recent escalation of military operations has triggered humanitarian concerns, as thousands of civilians have been displaced due to the ongoing offensives. In response, the Somali Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA) has deployed emergency aid to affected areas. A shipment of food, medicine, and essential supplies was dispatched from Mogadishu to assist 15,000 displaced families in Ceel Cali Axmed and Al-Kowthar, areas directly impacted by the counterterrorism campaign.
“The aid we sent tonight responds to an urgent appeal from Hirshabelle authorities to support those displaced by clashes in Ceel Cali Axmed and Al-Kowthar. Similar assistance will be delivered to other areas affected by ongoing military operations against Al-Shabab, including parts of Hiiraan and Bari,” SoDMA Director General Maxamuud Macallin Cabdulle stated.
The announcement follows reports of ground clashes between government forces and Al-Shabab militants in Daarul-Nimca and Beerayabaal earlier in the day. While details on the engagements remain limited, security sources suggest that government forces are maintaining pressure on remaining militant elements in the region.
Somali authorities have emphasized the importance of ongoing military pressure to prevent Al-Shabab from regrouping. Security officials have urged local communities to assist by reporting militant movements to the authorities.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more details emerge.