Somalia army offensive leaves Al-Shabaab militants dead

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A military offensive engineered by the Somali National Army [SNA] left at least five Al-Shabaab militants dead on Tuesday, just a few days before the activation of the second phase of operations against extremists, who have been wreaking havoc in the country.

In a confirmation statement, state media said the militants were killed in Galcad District of Galgaduud, just days after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud launched the combing exercise which is meant to cover areas which were not reached when the military carried out the first phase of operations.

The first phase of operations against Al-Shabaab was conducted a few months ago following authorization by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud who had just assumed power. The operation, sources said, left at least 3,000 Al-Shabaab militants dead besides injuring thousands.

According to the state media, Tuesday's crackdown also saw members of the international community participating, just before they divert their attention to Jubaland and Southwest where the second phase of operations is set to be activated in coming days.

"Five Al-Shabaab militants were killed in a joint operation by the Somali National Army and US Africom on Tuesday. The Airstrike targeted a hideout in the Galgaduud region, resulting in the deaths of 5 Al-Shabaab members. The National Army is conducting ongoing operations to eliminate terrorist groups hiding in the forest," read the Twitter post.

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS] and the US Africa Command have intensified operations against Al-Shabaab in central areas as part of restoring peace and stability in the Horn of Africa nation. The operation comes just amid the ongoing exit of ATMIS troops from the country.

By the end of September 2023, at least 3000 soldiers are set to leave Somalia in compliance with the Somali Transitional Plan [STP], but there have been concerns over the move. Security experts say the country should not tolerate such a move given the threats from the militants.

However, Somalia officials led by National Security Advisor Hussein Sheikh Ali, the country has trained enough soldiers who can take over security responsibilities from the US Africa Command and the ATMIS team. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is confident that the country will finally win the war.

GAROWE ONLINE