Somalia Security Operations Kill 28 Al Shabab Militants, Destroy Bomb Facilities

Somalia’s intelligence agency (NISA) said joint operations with international partners in Lower and Middle Shabelle regions killed 28 Al Shabab militants and destroyed bomb-making facilities, equipment, and explosive-laden vehicles. The actions are part of intensified efforts by Somali forces and allies, including AUSSOM, to combat the group’s long-running insurgency.

Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) announced on Tuesday that it carried out two coordinated and carefully planned security operations which resulted in the killing of 28 Al Shabab militants, marking another significant development in the country’s ongoing fight against insurgency.
According to the agency, the operations were executed with the support of international partners who continue to collaborate closely with the Somali central government in its counterterrorism efforts. These joint operations were conducted in the southern regions of Lower Shabelle and Middle Shabelle, areas that have long been considered strongholds of Al Shabab and have witnessed repeated militant activities over the years.
NISA revealed that one of the operations took place in the Kunyo Barrow area of the Lower Shabelle region. This particular mission was aimed at dismantling secret facilities operated by Al Shabab. Intelligence reports indicated that these facilities were being used for the production of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) as well as for the maintenance and repair of weapons used in attacks. The operation successfully neutralized seven militants, including individuals believed to be part of the group’s specialized bomb-making unit, whose activities have been linked to several deadly attacks.
In a separate but related operation, airstrikes were carried out in the Middle Shabelle region. These strikes targeted militant positions and resulted in the deaths of 21 Al Shabab fighters. The combined outcome of both operations brought the total number of militants killed to 28, as confirmed by NISA in its official statement.
The agency further stated that the operations inflicted substantial damage on the group’s operational capacity. Technical equipment used in the production and handling of explosives was destroyed, along with stockpiles of materials stored within the targeted facilities. Additionally, two vehicles that had been prepared for use in planned explosive attacks were successfully destroyed before they could be deployed, potentially preventing imminent threats to civilians and security personnel.
Al Shabab, an extremist group linked to Al Qaeda, has been waging an insurgency against the Somali government for more than 16 years. Throughout this period, the group has carried out numerous attacks across the country, frequently targeting government institutions, security forces, public officials, and innocent civilians. Their tactics have included bombings, assassinations, and coordinated assaults on both urban and rural locations.
In response to the persistent threat, the Somali National Army has, since July of last year, significantly intensified its military operations against the group. These efforts have been reinforced by the presence and support of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), as well as other international allies committed to stabilizing the country and combating terrorism.
The role of AUSSOM remains crucial in supporting Somalia’s security framework. Its mandate was renewed for another year by the United Nations Security Council in December, through a resolution that extends its authorization to operate until December 31. This extension underscores the continued need for international support in Somalia’s ongoing efforts to weaken and ultimately eliminate the threat posed by Al Shabab.