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Africa Horn
Somalia: SNA extends offensive against Al-Shabaab in rural areas
2024-05-15
[Garowe] The Somali National Army (SNA) has extended its offensive against al-Shabaab
... the personification of Somali state failure...
gunnies in central regions, as the country pushes to eliminate the krazed killers, who have wreaked havoc in the Horn of Africa nation for the last 16 years.

According to reports, the military has camped in Middle Shabelle for the last couple of months, pursuing al-Shabaab in various hideouts, where the gunnies initiate attacks. al-Shabaab is still dominant in central and southern regions.

Top military officials participating in the crackdown said the SNA troops targeted al-Shabaab bases in Eelbaad and Ruunirgood areas which have been the krazed killer’s strongholds. This comes after the military completed the first phase of operations against the al-Shabaab.

The military also extended operations in Eeldheer and Mesagawey areas and also Shan-Dhagood, Saqeer Nab, Macalin Abukar, and Hussein Cagey, within the region. The government is fighting to liberate the most strategic areas ahead of the foreign military exit from the country.

The military officials further said the national forces will also expand the operation to flush out the gunnies from areas such as Galcad, Elbur, and Galhareeri.

When he assumed leadership, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud vowed to vanquish the al-Shabaab gunnies while calling for support from the international community. The African Union
...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and US Africa Command are also part of the team pursuing al-Shabaab.

Already, 5000 ATMIS soldiers have left the country, with the third phase of exit targeting another 5,000 by the end of June in compliance with the Somali Transition Plan (STP). The Somali National Army is set to assume security responsibilities by the end of this year.

Besides military operations, the government is also pursuing those facilitating al-Shabaab activities financially. Furthermore, the government has also closed social media sites of the al-Shabaab which propel the group's propaganda.

Goobjoog News summarizes:
The Somali National Army has kicked out a major offensive against the Al-Shabaab militants on Middle Shabelle region.

According to military officials participating in the operation, the national forces targeted the militant’s bases in Eelbaad and Ruunirgood areas which have been the militant’s strongholds.

Elsewhere in Galgaduud, the national forces backed my local armies have launched major offensives against the militants in Eeldheer and Mesagawey areas and also Shan-Dhagood, Saqeer Nab, Macalin Abukar and Hussein Cagey, within the region.

The military officials further said the national forces will also expand the operation to flush out the militants from areas such as Galcad, Elbur and Galhareeri.
Related:
Middle Shabelle: 2024-04-26 Somali National Army Kills 30 70 Al-Shabaab Militants in Mudug Region
Middle Shabelle: 2024-04-25 Somali National Army and International Partners Strike Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle
Middle Shabelle: 2024-03-31 Over 80 Al-Shabab militants killed in Somalia
Link


Africa Horn
Al-Shabaab mourns loss of prominent member in army raid
2024-05-10
[Garowe] Somalia-based al-Shabaab
...... the Islamic version of the old Somali warlord...
turbans have mourned one of the senior officers with was killed by the Somali National Army (SNA) during a recent operation in southern parts of the country, in what they termed as a "huge" setback to "our" mission.

The group confirmed the demise of the traditional elder who was killed by government forces in Garasweyne, Bakool region of Southwest state on May 7. The government of Somalia confirmed the death in a separate presser as reported by state media.

Abdullahi Mohammed Yare alias "Malaaq Qori" acted as the traditional elder of one of the local clans and has supported the group with recruitment, collection of zakat, and opening of madrasas, according to reports from the region.

On Thursday, state media published an interview with a government commander who said he led the operation that killed Malaaq Qori. His death was described as a 'major' win in the fight against al-Shabaab murderous Moslems.

Al-Shabaab shadow Governors for Bakool, Sheikh Osman Abu Abdirahman and Galgudud Abdullahi Abu Khalid, were among al-Shabaab Officials who eulogized Malaaq Qori, terming him a 'strong pillar to our mission'.

The al-Shabaab turbans have suffered immense losses in recent weeks, following the activation of military campaigns across the country. For the last two years, at least 3,000 turbans have been killed in the operations across the country.

According to the UN Security Council, al-Shabaab collects close to $120 million annually from extortion, with unnamed foreign sources also contributing to the kitty. Of this amount, at least $24 million goes to the purchase of weapons.

Besides military operations against al-Shabaab, the government is targeting those financing the group. Last year, close to 250 bank accounts associated with the group and 70 mobile money transfer firms were blocked, minimizing the group's sources of revenue.

To further scuttle al-Shabaab, the government has also closed down social media sites and websites propagating the group's agenda. The group's influence has significantly nosedived in different parts of the country.
Related:
Garasweyne: 2015-11-01 50 bad boys waxed near Hudur
Garasweyne: 2014-06-11 13 militants killed after fierce clashes in Bakool
Garasweyne: 2013-08-15 6 killed in fresh fighting in Bakool region
Related:
Bakool: 2024-03-31 Over 80 Al-Shabab militants killed in Somalia
Bakool: 2024-01-06 2 Al-Shabaab fighters surrender to Somali government
Bakool: 2023-12-14 Somali army liberates more bases from Al-Shabaab
Link


Africa Horn
Southwest State Forces Kill 2 Shaboobniks, Capture 12
2024-05-10
[ShabelleMedia] In a series of successful operations against the al-Shabaab
... al-Qaeda's tentacle in East Africa...
terrorist group, the Southwest state forces of Somalia have achieved notable victories, capturing 12 al-Shabaab members and eliminating key figures within the organization.

These operations mark a significant step forward in the ongoing counterinsurgency efforts in Somalia. According to Somali state media, a government operation conducted in Somalia’s Bay region on May 5, 2024, resulted in the elimination of two al-Shabaab fighters, identified as Abdullahi Aliyow and Najib Abdisalan.

These individuals were responsible for tax collection for the group, a critical source of funding for their activities. This operation demonstrates the government’s commitment to dismantling the financial infrastructure of al-Shabaab, a crucial aspect of weakening the group’s operational capabilities.

In a separate operation carried out in villages located outside the Baydhabo town, the Southwest state’s spy agency unveiled several al-Shabaab operatives. These individuals were part of a larger network involved in terrorist activities, including planned liquidations, direct assaults, nighttime bombings, and extortion.

Twelve individuals were detained in this operation, highlighting the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations in combating terrorism.

These successes come amid ongoing efforts by the Somali government and its international partners to combat al-Shabaab. The Somali National Army, African Union
...a union consisting of 53 African states, most run by dictators of one flavor or another. The only all-African state not in the AU is Morocco. Established in 2002, the AU is the successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which was even less successful...
Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops, and local militia have been working together to push back against the krazed killer group. These efforts have resulted in the recapture of key strategic towns and the elimination of a significant number of al-Shabaab fighters.

The second phase of operations against al-Shabaab, which kicked off in southwest and Jubaland states, has seen the participation of soldiers from neighboring Kenya, Djibouti, and Æthiopia, in addition to Somali forces.
Garowe adds:
Somalia's spy agency; the National Intelligence Security Agency (NISA) has paraded 12 suspected Al-Shabaab militants as the fight against the group garnered momentum across the Horn of Africa nation, which is battling with instability.

The suspected militants were rounded by security forces in Baidoa, the regional administrative capital of Southwest state, following intensive search mounted by local troops. Southwest is a major terror hotbed in Somalia.

According to NISA, the 12 individuals were arrested following a coordinated crackdown by national security forces in Baidoa city and its surroundings were extorting money from members of the public in the region.

The suspects, NISA added, will be charged in the military court in line with traditions set by security operatives in Somalia. Besides extortion, they are accused of killing members of the public along with endangering the lives of security teams.

Security and intelligence officers from the southern state of Somalia are continuing with operations in the region to ensure security is maintained. The second phase of operations against Al-Shabaab is set to be launched in Southwest and Jubaland states.

For the last two years, security teams have intensified operations against Al-Shabaab in central regions, killing at least 3,000 Al-Shabaab militants. In the process, hundreds of Al-Shabaab militants have also surrendered to security teams.

The second phase of operations was delayed due to logistical challenges but the government announced possible resumption in the coming months. The Somali National Army is expected to assume security responsibilities from foreign troops by the end of this year.

Already, about 5,000 African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) soldiers have left the country. By June this year, 5,000 more are set to leave as the African Union gears towards implementation of the Somali Transition Plan.
Related:
Bay region: 2024-04-21 At Least 9 Al-Shabab Militants Killed in Bay Region
Bay region: 2024-04-02 A suspect apprehended for grenade attack on mosque in Baidoa, Somalia
Bay region: 2024-02-12 At least 27 militants killed in army attack on Al-Shabaab base
Related:
Baydhabo: 2011-11-11 Kenyan troops gear up for fresh Shabaab raids
Baydhabo: 2006-10-25 Baidoa will fall soon and we don't recognize the UN: Hassan Turki
Baydhabo: 2006-05-13 US and Al-Qaeda blamed for Mogadishu's turmoil
Related:
Baidoa: 2024-04-02 Good Morning
Baidoa: 2024-04-02 A suspect apprehended for grenade attack on mosque in Baidoa, Somalia
Baidoa: 2024-03-04 Somali army kills 30 Al-Shabaab members in Jubaland state
Related:
Southwest state: 2024-04-10 At least 40 Shaboobs toes up in Somalia battle
Southwest state: 2024-04-08 Al-Shabaab attacks strategic town near Somali capital
Southwest state: 2024-04-02 A suspect apprehended for grenade attack on mosque in Baidoa, Somalia
Link


Africa Horn
Kenyan police killed suspected Al-Shabaab fighters near Somalia border
2024-05-03
[ShabelleMedia] At least six suspected members of the al-Shabaab
... the Islamic version of the old Somali warlord...
terror group were Wednesday killed in an ambush by security forces in Kumba area, Lamu County.

Police said they also confiscated significant logistical supplies.

The scene of the ambush falls within the expansive Boni Forest where the bandidos Death Eaters hide as they plan to launch attacks on the Kenyan side.

Kenya Defence Forces who are part a multi-agency team operating in the area staged the ambush.

The personnel said some of the bandidos Death Eaters managed to escape.

"The public is advised to remain vigilant as the operation may lead to increased activity from the group, particularly as the number of injured bandidos Death Eaters is reported to be high," an official said.

Among those killed was a light-skinned man who authorities believe is a foreigner.

The raid was staged following intelligence reports that the group was planning an attack in the area. A major operation is ongoing in areas affected by terror-related attacks. This has seen a significant reduction in such incidents.

Areas bordering Boni Forest have been facing increased terror-related attacks largely due to its proximity to the Somalia border. The border areas of Mandera, Wajir, Lamu and Garissa have faced similar attacks resulting in slugging development in the areas.

Kenya postponed the planned reopening of its border with Somalia due to such attacks.

The government says they have acquired more resources to enhance operations in the border area against the terrorists.

The attacks have left many dead and displaced scores hence affecting development.

Police and military officials said they are in active pursuit of the attackers believed to be remnants of al-Shabaab hiding in Boni Forest.

The bandidos Death Eaters cross over from Somalia and stage attacks in Kenya before retreating to their hideouts in the forest areas under their control.

Kenya has been staging operations over the years to tame their activities.

Somalia has not had no stable government for decades to help in addressing such attacks.
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Kumba : 2012-04-21 Guinea-Bissau junta gives 2-year timeframe
Related:
Lamu County: 2024-03-06 Kenyan police kill 5 al-Shabab terrorists in border region
Lamu County: 2023-11-28 At least 1 killed, houses torched by al-Shabab militants in coastal Kenya
Lamu County: 2023-09-22 Kenya to deploy special forces to troubled northern, near Somalia border
Related:
Boni Forest: 2023-09-14 Al-Shabaab's IED base destroyed by KDF in Kenya
Boni Forest: 2023-08-26 Kenyan security forces foil Al-shabaab attack at an IDP camp in Lamu
Boni Forest: 2023-08-24 KDF repulses Al-Shabaab attack in Kenya, 2 toes up
Link


Africa Horn
Tragic Explosion in Elasha Biyaha: Al-Shabab Member, Children Killed
2024-04-29
[ShabelleMedia] On Saturday night, a devastating incident unfolded in Elasha Biyaha, located approximately 15km south of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.

A suspected al-Shabab militant tragically lost his life along with his two children when an improvised explosive device (IED) he was assembling exploded in his lap house. The man’s wife also sustained injuries in the blast and is currently receiving medical attention.

This tragic event was confirmed by the Somali Police, who reported that the explosion resulted from the man’s attempts to construct landmines in his residence.

The police spokesman, Abdifatah, highlighted that the incident is not the first of its kind, as similar events have occurred in houses where explosives were being prepared, both in Mogadishu and in various regions.

The explosion not only resulted in the loss of life but also uncovered additional explosive materials upon further investigation by the police.

This alarming development sheds light on the continued efforts of the militant group, al-Shabab, to carry out attacks in Somalia despite facing significant opposition from government forces and international efforts to dismantle their operations.

The incident comes in the wake of increased military operations against al-Shabab. Just a day prior, a car bombing at a Somali military facility resulted in the deaths of six people, including four soldiers.

The attack, claimed by the Islamist extremist group, was part of a series of aggressive actions aimed at destabilizing the region.

In response to such incidents, the Somali government has deployed hundreds of newly trained personnel in and around Mogadishu to bolster security and prevent retaliatory attacks.

The United States has also announced a $5 million bounty for information leading to the location of al-Shabab deputy leader Abukar Ali Adan, signaling a concerted effort to dismantle the group’s leadership and disrupt their activities.
Related:
Mogadishu: 2024-04-21 Turkey to start drilling oil in Somalia
Mogadishu: 2024-04-21 Ethiopian nationals arrested in Somalia
Mogadishu: 2024-04-10 Security Alert: U.S. Embassy in Nairobi Issues Warning on Threats in Mogadishu
Link


Africa Horn
Somali National Army Kills 30 70 Al-Shabaab Militants in Mudug Region
2024-04-26
[Goobjoog] The Somali National Army with support from its international partners conducted an operation in Mudug region Wednesday, killing at least 30 al-Shabaab krazed killers.

According to the Ministry of Information of the Federal Government the operation occurred in the Arfuuda area, located approximately 20 kilometers from the town of Harardhere.

The joint forces targeted two key centers during the operation; one used by the krazed killer group for organizing attacks in the Mudug region, and another where they were preparing explosives.

On Wednesday, government forces thwarted an attempted attack by the gunnies at Hawadley area in Middle Shabelle region which led to several gunnies killed, others wounded and several arrested.

The federal government has stated its commitment to wage a continuous war against the al-Shabaab in collaboration with regional authorities until all parts of Somalia occupied by the group are liberated.
Shabelle Media adds:
The Somali government has announced a significant victory in its ongoing battle against the al-Shabaab, reporting the killing of over 70 militants and the injury of 30 others in a follow-up military operation in the Tabar-mooge area, located approximately 28km north of Harardhere town.

The operation was conducted in collaboration with international partners, showcasing the government’s commitment to eliminating the threat posed by the extremist group.

In a statement released to the public, the government detailed the success of the operation, highlighting the significant number of al-Shabaab militants neutralized and the strategic importance of the Tabar-mooge area.

The operation was a follow-up to a previous mission in the nearby Carfuuda village, where targeted militants had reportedly fled from.

Despite the government’s claims of success, no photographic or visual evidence of the casualties has been provided to support the reported numbers. This has led to skepticism among some observers, who question the accuracy of the government’s claims and the effectiveness of the operations.

The Somali government, however, maintains that the operation was a joint effort with international partners, suggesting that there is a level of external verification and support for the reported results.
Garowe describes the first location as:
Carfuuda, about 20km northeast of Harardhere, Galmudug state.
Link


Africa Horn
Somali National Army and International Partners Strike Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle
2024-04-25
[ShabelleMedia] In a significant development for Somalia’s security landscape, the Somali National Army (SNA) in collaboration with international partners conducted a successful Arclight airstrike
...KABOOM!...
near Ruun Nirgood, located in the Middle Shabelle region.

This operation targeted key al-Shabaab
... Somalia's version of the Taliban, functioning as an arm of al-Qaeda...
ring leaders and militias, aiming to further the mission of liberating areas in east Galgaduud and central M. Shabelle.

The attack, which took place on April 24, 2024, marks a critical step in the ongoing efforts to dismantle al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities and reclaim territories under their control. This operation is part of a broader strategy to advance security and stability in Somalia, with the support of international partners.

The Middle Shabelle region has been a hotbed of al-Shabaab activity, with the holy warrior group attempting to establish a stronghold and carry out attacks against security forces and civilians.

The recent airstrike reflects the Somali government’s commitment to countering the threat posed by al-Shabaab and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.

The operation was part of a coordinated effort to eliminate key al-Shabaab leaders and disrupt their networks, thus weakening the group’s ability to carry out further attacks.

The success of this operation represents a significant victory in the ongoing battle against al-Shabaab, a group known for its affiliation with al-Qaeda and its history of violence and terror in Somalia and the wider East African region.
Link


Good Morning
2024-04-21


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04/21/2024

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Africa Horn
At Least 9 Al-Shabab Militants Killed in Bay Region
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Africa Horn
At Least 9 Al-Shabab Militants Killed in Bay Region
2024-04-21
[Goobjoog] National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) with support from local forces have killed at least 9 Al-Shabaab militants in an operation that targeted the group’s base near Bardale district in the Bay region.

According to reliable reports, the national forces recovered 9 AK-47 rifles, 1 PKM automatic machine gun, and 8 boxes loaded with ammunition during the operation.
Related:
Bardale district: 2022-08-01 Somali forces kill Al-Shabab militants
Bardale district: 2016-09-06 Somalia: Al Shabaab Beheads Elders in Southern Somalia
Link


Africa Horn
Heavy Losses Inflicted on Al-Shabaab Militant Group in Central Somalia
2024-04-15
[ShabelleMedia] In a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Somalia, more than 20 fighters from the al-Shabaab
... the personification of Somali state failure...
murderous Moslem group were killed in an Arclight airstrike
...KABOOM!...
that targeted their location in Ji’ibow village, located in the central Hiran region.

The operation occurred early on Sunday, dealing a considerable blow to the murderous Moslem group.

According to residents, the turbans suffered severe losses as a result of the airstrike. Throughout the morning following the attack, the turbans were seen collecting dead bodies and tending to their injured comrades. Among the casualties were fighters who were identified as non-Somalis by the villagers. This suggests that the murderous Moslem group might have been drawing recruits from other countries as well.

The al-Shabaab turbans had reportedly been regrouping in the area, possibly in preparation for an ambush somewhere in Hiiraan. The airstrike appears to have disrupted their plans and significantly weakened their capabilities in the region.

This incident follows a series of other recent engagements between the Somali government forces, supported by international partners, and the al-Shabaab murderous Moslems. The murderous Moslem group, which is affiliated with al-Qaeda, has been a major source of instability in Somalia, engaging in violent mostly peaceful attacks and seeking to impose its strict interpretation of Islamic law.
Related:
Hiran: 2024-03-31 Over 80 Al-Shabab militants killed in Somalia
Hiran: 2024-03-17 ‘Sacred job’: Iraqi Kurds digitize aging manuscripts to save vulnerable culture
Hiran: 2024-01-28 Somali troops with the support of foreign allies attack Al-Shabaab base
Link


Africa Horn
Puntland arrests pirates behind MV Abdullah hijacking incident
2024-04-15
[Garowe] At least 8 pirates have been apprehended on the East Coast of Puntland, a Federal state in northeastern Somalia, just moments after a Bangladeshi ship that was hijacked, was released from the hands of the notorious group operating in the country"s waters.

Somalia had struggled with piracy in the last three months with the pirates working closely with Al-Shabaab militants according to multiple sources in the country. There have been deliberate efforts to arrest and prosecute the pirates.

A high-ranking officer from Puntland Police Force informed Garowe Online that they have apprehended 8 members of the pirate group holding the Bangladesh-flagged ship MV Abdullah. It has not been confirmed whether the ransom money paid to the pirates was recovered during the operation.

"The practice of paying ransoms could potentially encourage more pirate attacks,” a Puntland police officer, who wished to remain anonymous, told Garowe Online. The coastline of Puntland has been the target of the pirates for a while.

This development comes amid a decrease in pirate attacks along the Somali coast, thanks in part to significant efforts by Indian naval forces capturing numerous pirates. The Indian Navy arrested several pirates early this month and were subjected to trial far away from Somalia.

Earlier, some reports indicated Somali pirates had released the MV Abdullah after receiving a $5 million ransom, local officials confirm. The Bangladeshi ship with a 23-member crew was hijacked in mid-March but it"s not clear if the pirates were arrested after receiving the ransom.

Puntland Marine Police Force has increased surveillance along the coastline with support from Somalia’s international partners who have been working hard to help defuse piracy in the country. The efforts have to a larger extent stabilised the region.

Al-Shabab group has been taking advantage of the instability in Somalia to work closely with the pirates but their effort has not been fully successful. Somalia is battling the vices as it streamlines its economy to attract more investors.
Related:
MV Abdullah 04-/09/2024 Fishing boat sinks off the coast of Mozambique, killing more than 90 peopleMV Abdullah 04-/08/2024 Houthis attack US, UK and Israeli shipsMV Abdullah 04-/02/2024 India rescues Iranian fishing vessel hijacked by pirates off Somalia

Link


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