Somali, AU Troops Capture Strategic Town in Southern Somalia

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali National Army (SNA) forces, in coordination with troops from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), particularly Ugandan forces, on Saturday seized full control of the strategic town of Awdheegle in the Lower Shabelle region.

The operation, dubbed “Silent Storm,” has been underway in recent days across several areas of the region under the South West State administration. It aims to dislodge al-Shabab militants from their remaining strongholds.

According to a brief statement from Somalia’s Ministry of Defense, troops successfully took full control of Awdheegle and have begun conducting security clearance operations within the town.

“Somali National Army forces and Ugandan troops under the ATMIS mission entered Awdheegle this morning as part of the ongoing ‘Silent Storm’ offensive to liberate areas harboring al-Shabab militants,” the statement said.

The capture of Awdheegle marks a significant step in the ongoing offensive against the al-Qaida-linked group. In recent days, Somali and allied forces have retaken several villages surrounding Awdheegle as part of the broader campaign.

Al-Shabab has not yet commented on the reported loss of the town.

GAROWE ONLINE