The development marks a notable turn in Somalia’s political and security landscape, with in a statement issued on Sunday, the ministry said the operation targeted locations where Al-Shabaab leaders and militants were reportedly present.
The government, which commonly refers to the group as “Khawaarij,” said 14 militants were killed during the raid. According to the statement, troops also destroyed weapons, explosives and other equipment allegedly used by the group to plan and execute attacks against civilians and government targets.
The Ministry of Defence said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Somali National Armed Forces to weaken and eliminate Al-Shabaab, the al-Qaeda-linked insurgent group that has waged a violent campaign against the Somali government for more than a decade. The ministry accused the militants of carrying out attacks, looting property and contributing to insecurity in different parts of the country.
Authorities did not provide details on whether any senior Al-Shabaab figures were among those killed, and the casualty figures could not be independently verified. The latest operation comes as Somali security forces continue military offensives against Al-Shabaab across several regions, particularly in southern and central Somalia, with support from local community forces and international partners.
The Ministry of Defence said the Somali National Armed Forces remain committed to continuing operations aimed at strengthening security, stability and peace throughout the country.
The episode underscores the continuing pressure on Somali institutions as the federal government and regional authorities seek to balance security operations with political stability and public confidence.
