Somali National Army Danab commandos conducted a counter-terrorism raid targeting senior Al-Shabaab militants in Harboole, Lower Juba region
In a statement, Danab confirmed killing several senior Al-Shabaab members, who orchestrated kidnappings and attacks across Somalia and neighboring countries.
“The operation eliminated Al Shabab militants wanted for terrorism and kidnappings inside Somalia and neighboring countries,” said the statement from Danab.
During the raid, Danab forces also captured weapons and military equipment used by the militants to terrorize Somali civilians across the region.
The operation came day after a vehicle carrying civilians hit by an Al-Shabaab roadside bomb explosion while traveling from Kismayo in the same region.
There was no immediate comment from Al Shabab, an al Qaeda-linked group, over the claims.
Since March, Al Shabab has increased attacks on army positions across Hiraan and Middle Shabelle, reversing recent territorial gains by the military forces.
Analysts link the surge in attacks to stalled military operations, which allowed the group to regroup and reclaim some previously liberated territories.
Despite airstrikes from Somali and international forces, the group continues to launch coordinated attacks, signaling a possible resurgence in the region.
