MOGADISHU, Somalia— Somalia’s government said Monday that national forces, backed by African Union troops, have seized key areas in the Lower Shabelle region from the al-Shabab extremist group.
In a statement, the military Army said its forces, with AU troops and Ugandan forces, captured the areas of Mubarak and Daarusalam during a joint operation.
The operation, described as part of ongoing security offensives, removed what authorities called a long-standing militant presence in the communities.
The army said several al-Shabab fighters were killed during the fighting but did not provide casualty figures.
Officials said operations against the group would continue, reaffirming the government’s commitment to restoring security and stability across the country.
The announcement comes as Somalia intensifies military campaigns against al-Shabab, including a newly launched offensive dubbed “Operation Hillaac.”
There was no immediate comment from al-Shabab regarding the claims.
