Somali Forces Neutralize 28 al-Shabab Fighters in Southern Operations

 

Kismayo, Somalia – January 25, 2026

Somalia’s security forces, including the elite Danab commandos and Jubbaland’s Darawish units, have successfully killed at least 28 al-Shabab militants in a series of targeted operations in remote areas surrounding Kudhaa district in southern Somalia. This marks another significant development in the federal government’s ongoing campaign to secure the region and eliminate extremist threats.

According to military officials overseeing the operations, 24 al-Shabab fighters were killed in coordinated attacks that extended into late Saturday, while two wounded militants were captured after attempting to hide in dense bushland near Kudhaa. Officials reported that operations continued early Sunday, resulting in the deaths of four additional militants who had escaped prior engagements.

Security forces confirmed that they are actively pursuing a senior al-Shabab commander, Fu’aad Shangole, who sustained serious injuries during the recent confrontations. “These operations are part of our sustained efforts to clear the area of al-Shabab fighters who continue to pose a threat to the safety and security of local communities,” said a security officer speaking on condition of anonymity.

The offensive in Kudhaa aligns with a broader strategy by Somalia’s federal government to regain control over territories long affected by militant activity. In parallel, government troops, supported by local militias, have conducted heavy operations in the Middle Shabelle and Lower Shabelle regions, targeting known al-Shabab positions. These coordinated campaigns aim to disrupt the group’s operations, weaken its organizational structure, and restore stability to areas plagued by violence and insecurity.

Al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-linked militant organization, has been responsible for numerous attacks across Somalia, including assaults on government installations, international peacekeepers, and civilian populations. Its continued presence in rural and hard-to-reach areas has posed significant challenges for Somali security forces. The latest operations demonstrate an increasing commitment by Somali authorities to address these threats proactively and secure the safety of citizens in affected regions.

Military analysts say the success of the recent offensive highlights the improving operational capacity of Somali forces and the benefits of collaboration with regional security units such as the Darawish. By combining intelligence gathering, rapid-response operations, and community engagement, Somali forces aim to dismantle militant networks and prevent their resurgence.

The operations in Kudhaa also carry important implications for local governance and development. By removing the threat posed by al-Shabab, security forces create space for humanitarian assistance, reconstruction, and economic activity to resume in previously inaccessible areas. Communities long affected by violence can now begin rebuilding their lives and participating in local governance without fear of reprisals from extremist groups.

As Somalia continues to navigate its security challenges, the government’s sustained focus on eliminating al-Shabab and strengthening regional partnerships remains central to its strategy. While progress has been made, officials acknowledge that ongoing vigilance and coordinated operations are essential to ensure lasting stability in southern Somalia.

These developments reflect a growing determination among Somali security forces to reclaim control over their territory, safeguard communities, and build a secure environment conducive to peace and development. The success in Kudhaa serves as a reminder of the resilience and capability of Somalia’s armed forces in confronting complex security threats.