Somalia: SNA kills Al-Shabaab leaders in operation

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somali National Army (SNA) has killed nine more Al-Shabaab leaders in central regions, the state confirmed, in the latest crackdown targeting the militants, who have been creating havoc in the Horn of Africa nation, which is struggling with stability.

According to the state media, nine Al-Shabaab militants were killed by the armed forces with assistance from international partners, who have been instrumental in the operations that are now entering the second year since President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took over.

The operation also left 10 others critically wounded, with the military now pursuing remnants in interior parts of Galgaduud within Middle Shabelle frontlines. The military has been combing the region for 12 months.

"Nine al-Shabaab terrorists killed, 10 wounded in coordinated operations with Armed Forces and international partners in Galgaduud and Middle Shabelle regions of Somalia. Vehicles and equipment destroyed."

The government initiated the second phase of operations against Al-Shabaab and since then, at least 3000 militants have been killed in different parts of the country. The second phase of operations against the group is set to begin in Jubaland and Southwest states.

United States Africa Command and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) have been assisting the country to stabilize, helping the Somali National Army (SNA) to liberate several regions, including Jubaland and Southwest.

In the next few months, the ATMIS contingent is set to exit from the country, and the SNA will take over security responsibilities. Already, 5000 soldiers have left and in the next phase, 5,000 more will be leaving in line with the Somali Transition Plan.

The government has vowed to eliminate the militants in the coming months, with assistance from members of the international community. Kenya, Ethiopia, Burundi, Uganda, and Djibouti are some of the top contributing Countries in Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE