Somalia Delivers Blow to Al-Shabab, Kills 30 Militants

In a decisive military campaign, Somalia’s armed forces have successfully targeted al-Shabab militants in the Galmudug region, as announced by the Information Ministry on Saturday.

The coordinated operation, carried out by the Somali National Army (SNA) alongside Galmudug State forces and local pro-government militias, resulted in the deaths of 30 militants and injuries to dozens more.

According to a government statement, the operation, which took place over 48 hours in the Qeycad area of southern Mudug, was initiated following intelligence reports about the militants’ movements.

The SNA sustained three injuries during the confrontation, which involved intense gunfire lasting several hours, ultimately leading to significant damage to the militant group and the capture of their strongholds.

Witnesses reported fierce fighting near Ba’adweyn town, with the SNA gaining control of the area. Notably, several al-Shabab commanders, including key figures Mohamed Bashir Muse and Madey Fodey, surrendered during the engagement.

This military action follows a recent suicide bombing in Mogadishu that killed at least seven people, highlighting the ongoing security challenges faced by the country.

The operation coincided with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s visit to Kampala, Uganda, where he sought to bolster bilateral ties and enhance regional security cooperation with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

As Somalia grapples with complex diplomatic issues, including tensions with Ethiopia over maritime agreements, the government is forging closer alliances with Egypt and Eritrea, which have their own historical disputes with Ethiopia.

Recent meetings in Asmara among leaders from Egypt, Somalia, and Eritrea have further solidified what analysts describe as an emerging coalition against Ethiopian influence.