Somali Army Launches Major Offensive Against Militants in Central Regions  

MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the middle of endless sporadic attacks against members of the public, the Somali National Army (SNA) has launched major operations against the group within central Somalia, with the major aim of dislodging the group from strategic areas.

Backed by regional forces, the Somali National Army waged major offensives against the group in Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions, with the operations targeting remote areas where the militants have been regrouping for the last three months.

Working jointly, the troops advanced towards Ceel-Hareeri in Hiiraan, with the authorities describing it as a major gathering point for the militants. Fierce clashes were reported with the battle said to be going on for most time, Tuesday.

“This assault is part of a broader effort to clear central Somalia of terrorist elements,” a regional security official told National Media on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the operation.

For months, with the help of the international forces drawn from the US Africa Command and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), the SNA force has managed to crush the militants, seizing major territories in the process.

There are reports that the US government is keen to defund the mission troops, in what analysts argue would hinder the operations and perhaps help the militants to heighten their actions across the country, which is fighting for stability.

Further details on casualties and the outcome of the assault are expected as the operation unfolds. On Tuesday, reports indicated that the militants killed three army recruits at Hiilweyne military barracks near Bal’ad town just as the army advanced.

Meanwhile, in Mogadishu, at least three rounds of mortar were fired at the vicinity of Mogadishu Halane base camp, which includes Mogadishu’s airport. There have been reports of damage to properties. The group claimed responsibility for the attacks. 

GAROWE ONLINE