Somali Government Reports Death of Over 130 Al Shabab Militants in Military Operation

Photo: Somalia Standard

February 20, 2025 Hour: 1:48 pm

The Somali government announced on Thursday that more than 130 members of the jihadist group Al Shabab were killed in a military operation conducted by the Somali army in collaboration with local militias in the central region of the country.

According to a statement released by the Somali Ministry of Information and reported by local media, the operation took place in the areas of El Ali Ahmed, Ali Fooldheere, Alkowsar, and Daarunimca, located in the Middle Shabelle region.

Significant Defeat and Seizure of Weapons

In addition to the high number of casualties among the militants, the Ministry confirmed the seizure of a large cache of weapons during the operation.

“The militants suffered a heavy defeat, and our forces are actively pursuing the remaining fighters to bring them to justice. Somalia will never waver in its fight against terrorism,” declared the Somali Ministry of Defense in an earlier statement.

Intensified Military Campaign Against Al Shabab

Somalia has intensified its military operations against Al Shabab since President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared a “total war” against the terrorist group in August 2022.

Since then, the Somali army, supported by successive African Union missions since 2007, has launched multiple offensives against Al Shabab. These operations have occasionally been supported by airstrikes from the United States and Turkey.

Background on Al Shabab’s Activities and Influence

Al Shabab, an Al Qaeda affiliate since 2012, frequently carries out attacks in Mogadishu and other regions to overthrow the internationally-backed central government and establish an ultraconservative Wahhabi Islamic state.

The group controls rural areas in central and southern Somalia and conducts attacks in neighboring countries, including Kenya and Ethiopia.

Ongoing Conflict and Political Instability

Somalia has been embroiled in conflict and chaos since 1991, following the overthrow of dictator Mohamed Siad Barre, which left the country without an effective government and divided among Islamist militias and warlords.

The Somali government’s latest offensive reflects its ongoing commitment to combating terrorism and restoring stability to the nation.