Somali forces step up operations against al-Shabaab, kill 16 militants
Mogadishu, July 26
Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency, supported by international partners, has killed 16 al-Shabaab militants, including two key operatives, in Somalia.
According to NISA, Saturday evening's joint operations targeted the Miirtaqwo and Tardo areas in the Middle Shabelle and Hiran regions, destroying key enemy vehicles and equipment.
It said the first operation targeted and destroyed an al-Shabaab facility known as the "Security House", where equipment for Radio Andalus was stored, Xinhua news agency reported.
Abdisamad Mohamed, head of the Radio Andalus propaganda unit, and operative Ali Salad were killed in the operation, while another member was seriously injured.
Equipment belonging to Radio Andalus, the station used by the group to broadcast extremist propaganda, was also destroyed during the operation.
"These operations are part of ongoing efforts to dismantle al-Shabaab and destroy the facilities and equipment used to carry out terrorist acts," NISA said.
According to NISA, subsequent operations in the Tardo area of Hiran targeted al-Shabaab militants mobilising for attacks in Goobo and Waabweyn.
Security experts said the latest operations reflect intensified security efforts aimed at dismantling al-Shabaab networks and restoring safety for civilians in one of the country's most volatile regions.
Last month, the Somali National Army, supported by international security partners, conducted a series of airstrikes in the Godey area of southern Somalia on Tuesday, killing 35 al-Shabaab militants, the Ministry of Defence said.
The Ministry said the joint strikes also injured 20 other militants, specifically targeting the group's network of caves, weapons caches, and hideouts.
It added that the initial strikes triggered a series of large secondary explosions at the spot, indicating the presence of hidden weapons stockpiles, explosive materials, and enemy military supplies.
"The site was also occupied by militants and vehicles loaded with explosives that had been prepared for use in terrorist attacks against Somalia," the Ministry said in a statement issued in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting how these operations are targeting propaganda units like Radio Andalus. In Pakistan, we see similar tactics where extremist groups use media to radicalize youth. Somalia seems to be learning the right lessons.
Let's hope the international partners involved are also focusing on rebuilding Somalia's institutions. Military action alone won't solve the problem. The root causes like poverty and lack of education need attention too.
As someone from Karnataka, I'm glad our intelligence agencies also share such counter-terror expertise with friendly nations. The fight against extremism is global. Proud of India's role in these efforts! 🇮🇳
Killing 16 militants is a tactical win, but al-Shabaab has proved resilient over the years. Somalia needs sustained pressure from all angles. Also, civilian casualties must be minimized in these operations.
The destruction of Radio Andalus equipment is crucial. Propaganda is a powerful weapon. In India, we've seen how extremist media can radicalize vulnerable youth. Cutting off their voice is as important as military strikes.
Every operation that removes key operatives like Abdisamad Mohamed and Ali Salad is a step forward. But I wonder about the long-term strategy. Is there a plan to prevent new recruits from joining al
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.