Somali Special Forces Neutralize Over 100 Al-Shabaab Fighters in Awdheegle Operation

In a decisive military operation, Somalia’s elite Danab Special Forces, working in coordination with international partners, eliminated more than 100 Al-Shabaab fighters in Awdheegle, Lower Shabelle region. The operation, described as “meticulously planned and successfully executed,” marks a significant step in the ongoing fight against the extremist group that has long destabilized Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.

A Strategic and Targeted Operation

According to a statement released by the Somali National Army (SNA), the operation targeted key Al-Shabaab hideouts, including underground bunkers and fortified positions that had been used to coordinate attacks and shelter fighters. Among those killed were several senior Al-Shabaab commanders, further weakening the group’s leadership structure.

The Ministry of Defense confirmed that the offensive dismantled a network of tunnels and defensive installations built by the insurgents. These structures had enabled Al-Shabaab to launch ambushes and evade counterterrorism operations in the past. By destroying these strongholds, Somali forces not only neutralized immediate threats but also denied the group critical operational bases in the Lower Shabelle region.

No Casualties Among Government or Allied Forces

Notably, government officials emphasized that no Somali soldiers or allied forces were harmed during the mission. The precision of the operation reflects improved training, intelligence sharing, and coordination between Somali forces and their international partners, including the United States and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).

“This was a carefully orchestrated operation, executed with discipline and accuracy. Our forces carried it out without suffering any losses, which demonstrates the growing capacity of the Somali National Army,” the Ministry of Defense highlighted in its statement.

The Continuing Threat of Al-Shabaab

Al-Shabaab, which maintains ties to Al-Qaeda, remains one of the deadliest insurgent groups in Africa. Despite suffering territorial losses in recent years, the group continues to carry out deadly attacks across Somalia, targeting civilians, government officials, and international peacekeepers. Its ability to regroup and launch asymmetric assaults has made it a persistent challenge for both Somalia and its allies.

The group has exploited weak governance and insecurity in rural areas, embedding itself within local communities while extorting resources to fund its operations. For this reason, military campaigns like the one in Awdheegle are seen as critical to dismantling its networks and restoring stability in contested regions.

A Renewed Commitment to Peace and Security

The Federal Government of Somalia has reiterated its commitment to intensifying military pressure on Al-Shabaab. Officials have vowed to continue coordinated operations aimed at liberating areas still under militant control, particularly in central and southern Somalia.

“This successful operation in Awdheegle is a message to Al-Shabaab: their days of terrorizing Somali communities are numbered,” government representatives declared.

As Somalia advances in its state-building process, such victories on the battlefield provide renewed hope for a more secure and stable future. The courage and effectiveness of Somali security forces, combined with ongoing international support, are paving the way toward the long-term goal of peace and development in the country.