Somalia: Al-Shabaab suffers huge blow as 40 militants die in army raid

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Over 40 Al-Shabaab militants have been killed in the latest operation by the Somali National Army [SNA], state media reports, in what defines the resilience of the troops in liberating the country, which has struggled with instability for over three decades.

According to state media, the Somali National Army used aerial and ground combats in dealing with the militants a huge blow, with help from international partners. The US Africa Command and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS] troops have been closely assisting the national army.

The assault engineered by the Danab Special Forces, was executed in Welmaro village about 40 kilometers from Afmadow in Lower Jubba. The state media did not give much information about the incident but there are deliberate efforts to neutralize the militants.

"Over 40 Al-Shabaab militants, including leaders, killed in aerial and ground attack by Somali National Army's Danab with international support in Welmaro, 40 KM away from Afmadow in LowerJubba region. Stay tuned for more information," read a tweet by the state media.

The assault comes moments before the Somali National Army starts the second phase of operations against Al-Shabaab, which will focus on Jubaland and Southwest states. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud insisted the operation will focus on areas where Al-Shabaab has been under control for several years.

According to the president, soldiers from Kenya, Djibouti, and Ethiopia who are not serving in ATMIS, will also serve in the country for a period of three months during the crackdown. ATMIS is set to withdraw starting the end of this month, with over 2,000 soldiers set to leave.

Already, Defense Minister Mohamed Nur has bade farewell to the 24th Brigade in Mogadishu, named after Khalid bin Walid, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad [pbuh] and a legendary warrior. The brigade is set to join their comrades on the frontlines, state media reported.

The Minister expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the bravery and dedication of these soldiers, who are willing to risk their lives in defense of their country. Somalia is fighting violent extremism as it seeks stability, with the revival of the economy being the main focus of the current administration.

GAROWE ONLINE