Somali Army, AU Forces Retake Two Villages From Al-Shabab

MOGADISHU, Somalia - After a battle, the Al-Shabaab militants on various frontlines, the Somali National Army (SNA), with the help of the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Forces, managed to recover two strategic towns in the country.

Following weeks of clashes with the militants, the SNA announced the capture of Sabid and Anole towns within Lower Shabelle in a major successful operation within the Horn of Africa nation, which is struggling with instability.

Lt. Col. Ahmed Gaashaan confirmed the development, describing the liberation as a critical step in the broader campaign to dismantle the terrorist group. He said the military remains committed to fostering peace and security in the country.

Also actively present during the operation were the Ugandan People's Defence Forces (UPDF) serving in the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia. The towns are roughly 30 kilometres away from Mogadishu.

The insurgents had seized the area in March, but the military has sustained operations against the group in various frontlines, leading to the latest capture. The militants have recently retreated after an intensified crackdown against them.

The Somali army is also fighting to recapture Adan Yabaal town, which they lost to Al-Shabaab in May, leading to the disruption of supplies across the country. Al-Shabaab maintains a strong presence in central and southern regions.

President Hassan Sheikh announced total war against al-Shabaab when he recaptured the seat in 2022, but the results are underwhelming. Critics accuse him of being obsessed with internal politics as opposed to the fight against Al-Shabaab.

GAROWE ONLINE