Al-Shabaab suffers more battlefield defeats in Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia-based Al-Shabaab militants have suffered huge blows in the latest crackdown at Jehe-jeha area within the central parts of the country, following an operation by the Somali National Army (SNA) with the help of US Africa Command.

According to the state media, 26 Al-Shabaab militants were killed on Sunday, marking one of the greatest achievements at the beginning of the year, even as the country plots to eliminate the militants after 16 years of troubles.

The international community has been helpful in the fight against Al-Shabaab, with the US Africa Command being consistent with air bombardments. The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has also been crucial in battlefields.

"Somali forces and International allies eliminate 26 al-Shabaab, including group leader, in Jeh-jeha area. The operation follows deadly clash that left 50+ militants dead," read the statement by the state media.

The government of Somalia has activated a crackdown against the Al-Shabaab in central and southern regions which first phase of operations leaving over 3000 militants dead. The second phase is due to kick off in Jubaland and Southwest states.

Already, the Somali National Army has started taking over security responsibilities from ATMIS troops who have left the country. So far, 5,000 ATMIS troops have left the country in complicated with the Somali Transition Plan.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud maintains that by the end of 2024 when the last contingent of mission troops leave, the war against Al-Shabaab would have been won. The UN Security Council lifted the arms embargo imposed on Somalia, giving the country autonomy to purchase sophisticated weapons.

GAROWE ONLINE