MOGADISHU, Somalia — In a significant blow to the Al-Shabaab insurgency, the Somali National Army, supported by local forces, successfully conducted an operation in the Qeycad area of the southern Mudug region, resulting in the death of 30 militants, including two key commanders, Mohamed Bashir Muse and Madey Fodey, according to a statement from the Ministry of Information on Saturday.
The operation, which concluded after approximately 48 hours, also left 40 Al-Shabaab fighters wounded. The military action targeted and dismantled several strongholds used by the militants, aiming to disrupt their operations in the region.
“The successful execution of this operation demonstrates our commitment to eradicating the threat posed by Al-Shabaab and restoring lasting peace in Somalia,” the statement read, highlighting the collaborative efforts with local militias.
This military engagement marks another chapter in Somalia’s ongoing struggle against Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-linked group that has been fighting to overthrow the government and impose its strict version of Islamic law. The operation in Mudug is part of broader efforts by the Somali government, alongside international partners, to weaken and eventually eliminate Al-Shabaab’s influence across the country.
The Ministry’s statement did not mention any casualties among the Somali forces or local militias involved in the operation. However, it emphasized the importance of such operations in protecting citizens and securing strategic locations from militant control.
The elimination of commanders Muse and Fodey is seen as a particularly significant victory, as they were reportedly involved in planning and executing numerous attacks against government and civilian targets.
This operation’s success could potentially shift the balance in the region, providing a momentary respite to the local population and potentially encouraging more areas to align with the government’s efforts against Al-Shabaab. However, the group’s resilience and ability to regroup remain a concern for security analysts, indicating that while such operations are crucial, sustained efforts are necessary to achieve lasting stability in Somalia.
HORN LIFE
