Recent Appearances...

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Hello !
Recent Appearances...

Africa Horn

South West State forces launch offensive against Al-Shabaab in Lower Shabelle

2025-05-13

[ShabelleMedia] Security forces from Somalia’s South West State on Sunday launched a major military operation against al-Shabaab

... Somalia's version of the Taliban, functioning as an arm of al-Qaeda...
Death Eaters in several villages under Walanweyn district in the Lower Shabelle region, officials said.

The offensive targeted the areas of Yaaqbariwayne, Leego, and Carmoole, following intelligence reports that al-Shabaab fighters were mobilizing in the region.

"Our forces responded swiftly and conducted a planned assault on bad boy positions," said a military officer involved in the operation. "We killed several fighters, destroyed key installations, and regained control of the affected areas."

Following the operation, South West State forces began sweeping the area to secure it from potential counterattacks and to stabilize local security.

Meanwhile,
...back at the secret hideout, Scarface Al sneeringly put his proposition to little Nell...
the main highway linking the capital, Mogadishu, with Baydhabo remains under al-Shabaab control. Due to the persistent threat of roadside kaboomings and ambushes, top government and South West State officials have been forced to travel between the two cities by air.

Security sources say the bad boy group regularly stages attacks along the route, targeting military convoys and civilian vehicles.

Link

Africa Horn

U.S. AFRICOM Airstrike Targets ISIS Militants in Puntland, Says Somali Defence Ministry

2025-05-06

[ShabelleMedia] In a coordinated effort with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an ~~Arclight~~ airstrike
<del>Arclight</del> airstrike

...KABOOM!...
this morning in Puntland
...a region in northeastern Somalia, centered on Garowe in the Nugaal province. Its leaders declared the territory an autonomous state in 1998. Puntland and the equally autonomous Somaliland seem to have avoided the clan rivalries and warlordism that have typified the rest of Somalia, which puts both places high on the list for Islamic subversion...
, targeting turbans affiliated with the Islamic State
...formerly ISIS or ISIL, depending on your preference. Before that they were al-Qaeda in Iraq, as shaped by Abu Musab Zarqawi. They're really very devout, committing every atrocity they can find in the Koran and inventing a few more. They fling Allah around with every other sentence, but to hear western pols talk they're not really Moslems....
(ISIS). The airstrike resulted in significant enemy casualties, according to initial reports.

The Ministry of Defence of Somalia has commended the successful operation, praising the collaboration between the Somali government and the U.S. military in combating terrorism. A statement from the Ministry emphasized the importance of the ongoing partnership and reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to working with international allies to eradicate terrorist groups operating within the country.

"The airstrike today is a clear demonstration of the strength of our partnership with U.S. AFRICOM," the Ministry said in a statement. "Together, we remain dedicated to defeating the terrorist threat posed by ISIS and other holy warrior factions. This successful operation is another step forward in ensuring the security and stability of Somalia."

The airstrike, according to AFRICOM, is part of an ongoing campaign to target and eliminate al-Shabaab
... the personification of Somali state failure...
and ISIS, which have been destabilizing the region, particularly in the northern and central parts of Somalia.

While no specific details have been released regarding the number of ISIS turbans killed or captured, the Somali government has vowed to continue its counterterrorism operations in collaboration with international partners to disrupt and dismantle these holy warrior networks.

The U.S. military has been conducting operations in Somalia for several years, primarily focused on targeting al-Shabaab holy warriors, but ISIS-affiliated groups have increasingly become a threat in the country, particularly in Puntland.

This operation underscores the continued international effort to support Somalia’s fight against terrorism and its ongoing commitment to securing a peaceful future for its citizens.

Link

Africa Horn

Somali President meets regional leaders over worsening security, Al-Shabaab resurgence; Somali army chief quits

2025-04-22

[ShabelleMedia] Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held a closed-door meeting with the leaders of the Galmudug
...a semiautonomous region in central Somalia, bordering Puntland on the north. Galmudug is not trying to obtain international recognition as a separate nation, but rather considers itself autonomous within the larger Somali federalism, for what that's worth...
, Hirshabelle, and South West regional states to discuss the deteriorating security situation and the renewed offensive by al-Shabaab

... al-Qaeda's tentacle in East Africa...
bad boys.

The talks, focused on counterterrorism operations and the bad boy group’s recent resurgence, came in the wake of an al-Shabaab takeover of the central town of Adan Yabal in Middle Shabelle, approximately 245 kilometers north of Mogadishu.

Hirshabelle President Ali Hussein Gudlawe underscored the strategic importance of regaining control of Adan Yabal, describing the group’s presence there as a major challenge to his administration.

Meanwhile,
...back at the shootout, bullets whapped! around Butch as he tried to tie his scarf around his shoulder as a tourniquet......
South West President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohammed Laftagareen praised the Somali National Army for repelling a recent al-Shabaab assault near Baidoa. He said the attack had been thwarted with several bully boyz killed, their bodies later displayed publicly in the city.

President Mohamud also consulted the regional leaders on a broader political initiative aimed at engaging key stakeholders and civil society to address the country’s fragile security. The initiative seeks to coordinate efforts to retake territories currently under al-Shabaab control and reinforce the national army’s campaign.

Security in Somalia has steadily worsened in recent weeks, with an uptick in attacks targeting military bases in Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle, fueling public concern and political pressure in the capital.

Somali army chief to resign after setback in Al-Shabaab war

[Garowe] General Odowaa Yusuf Rage, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Somali National Army (SNA), who made a return recently after dismissal, has since written to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, asking for exit from the SNA leadership.
"I'm outta here!"
Credible reports indicate that the Chief of Defence Forces is said to have written to President Hassan, expressing his intention to leave the forces, at a time the Somali National Army is facing setbacks from the battle against Al-Shabaab militants.

The Somali National Army lost strategic Adan Yabaal town in Middle Shabelle, highlighting a serious gap in the operations, with the US Africa Command forced to intervene by activating an airstrike while assisting the local forces in the fight against the group.

For this, President Mohamud is also expected to reshuffle senior military leadership to boost operations against al Shabaab, as the group has recently intensified attacks and regained control of previously lost territories.

General Odawaa Yusuf Rageh rejoined the military in November 2024 after two years of absence, having been replaced by General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyiddin. Odowaa was brought back to spearhead the operations by the military against al-Shabaab.

If Odowaa Yusuf Rage's exit is confirmed, it would yet again deal a blow to security forces with the change on Command set to affect general organisation and strategy within the defence forces. The military is struggling to reclaim its lost glory.

This comes at the time President Hassan Sheikh opened talks at Villa Somalia with leaders of the South West, Hirshabelle, and Galmudug states. The meeting, requested by the three federal member states, comes after the loss of the military on a number of frontlines.

Next week, Hassan Sheikh has convened the National Consultative Council meeting, which shall focus on the strategies in the fight against Al-Shabaab. The government of Somalia is fighting the group with local security teams expected to take over security responsibilities in future.

Link

Africa Horn

Somalia: Puntland forces conquer critical ISIS bases

2025-04-20

[Garowe] Security forces drawn from the Puntland Defense Forces entered phase III of the fight against ISIS militants, conquering critical bases in the process, with the ultimate goal being ejecting the militants from strategic areas within the Calmiskaad mountains.

According to reports, the Puntland forces, with assistance from the US Africa Command over overran key Daacish positions in the Al-Miskaad mountains—including Dallaas, Shilin-Cas, Buur-Gaal, and Dhanan—areas long used as terrorist hideouts.

The bases had provided the militants shelter from sustained aerial surveillance by the US Africa Command, the United Arab Emirates forces, and the local troops, who have managed to make tremendous gains on all frontlines.

"Puntland Counter-Terrorism Forces today conducted an operation in Mirale valley, killing ISIS terrorists hiding in the area and clearing them from their caves. The third phase of the operation is underway. Further details to follow shortly," security forces said.

Fighting is still ongoing in pockets. Troops reached these remote zones using camels and donkeys, as normal vehicles couldn’t access the terrain. U.S. airstrikes continue in support, and diplomatic sources say Washington is impressed by Puntland’s battlefield readiness.

Before the 3rd phase of operations kicked off, Puntland warned Nomad communities against making movements within certain areas of interest, noting that they may be taken as terrorists and possibly suffer from the ongoing bombings.

Regional leader Said Abdullahi Deni has previously visited various frontlines while encouraging troops to fight for peace and stability in the state. Puntland has yet to get substantial support from the Somali National Army (SNA) due to an unresolved federal governance conflict.

But there is still hope that with the support from the international partners, the state shall effectively defeat the ISIS militants who were trying to make inroads within northern Somalia. ISIS militants have lost significant territories within the last four months.

Link

Africa Horn

Somali Forces Kill Over 35 Al-Shabaab Fighters in Operation Near Baidoa

2025-04-18

[ShabelleMedia] Somali government forces, backed by South West State’s Darwish troops, killed more than 35 al-Shabaab fighters in a joint operation near Baidoa, officials said Thursday.

The military said the operation targeted a group of militants who were preparing to carry out an attack in the Baay Burjeed area, roughly 15 kilometers from Baidoa, the interim capital of South West State. A foreign commander reportedly leading the unit was among those killed.

At least 60 others were injured during the fighting, while troops recovered the bodies of 18 militants, including several senior figures. Operations are ongoing to track down those who fled the scene, the statement said.

Officials hailed the operation as a major blow to al-Shabaab and credited cooperation from the local population for its success.

Link

Africa Horn

Reinforcements Arrive in Somalia’s Hirshabelle to Assist Troops Fighting Al-Shabaab

2025-02-26

[ShabelleMedia] Reports from the HirShabelle state of Somalia indicate that many troops from Galmudug
...a semiautonomous region in central Somalia, bordering Puntland on the north. Galmudug is not trying to obtain international recognition as a separate nation, but rather considers itself autonomous within the larger Somali federalism, for what that's worth...
state have arrived in areas within the Middle Shabelle region. The reinforcements include both the Galmudug State forces and local clan militia units.

Sources say the troops are headed to the Ceelbaraf area to support forces already stationed there, who have been engaged in intense battles with the turban group al-Shabaab

... al-Qaeda's tentacle in East Africa...
in the past few days.

In a Shabelle Radio interview, Abdullahi Osmaan Dhore, a member of the Hirshabelle parliament, discussed the arrival of additional forces.

He emphasized that the troops are strong and will support the local forces in their efforts to clear al-Shabaab from the region, specifically from areas in the Middle Shabelle region where the bully boyz have a huge presence.

It is also worth noting that Ceelbaraf recently saw a fierce clash between al-Shabaab fighters and Somali National Army troops.

The battle resulted in casualties on both sides. The arrival of the Galmudug forces is expected to play a significant role in the ongoing effort to eliminate al-Shabaab from the region.

Link

Good Morning

2024-05-15

Female Inmate Allegedly Raped
by Trans Inmate in California Prison

Wednesday 05/15/2024

One Of Boko Haram Founders, Tahir Baga Reportedly Killed As Nigerian Soldiers Clear 5 Terrorists%u2019 Enclaves In Sambisa Forest

Connie Stuart in 1899.

Africa Horn Somalia: SNA extends offensive against Al-Shabaab in rural areas		Africa Horn Somalia: Grenade Attacks Target Southwest State Officials in Baidoa
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Iraq Top Iraqi commander killed in %u2018terrorist%u2019 attack: Defense ministry		Syria-Lebanon-Iran ISIS kills pro-regime fighter in Syria%u2019s Homs: Monitor

Link

Africa Horn

Somalia: Grenade Attacks Target Southwest State Officials in Baidoa

2024-05-15

[ShabelleMedia] In a shocking turn of events on Sunday night, two residential homes in Baidoa, the interim administrative capital of the Southwest state, were attacked by unknown assailants.

The attacks involved the hurling of hand grenades at the residences of prominent Southwest state officials, causing a stir among residents and security agencies.

The first attack targeted the home of Kurow Amhar, a member of the Darwish army within the regional administration. Shortly after, a second grenade was thrown at the residence of Ilyas Ali Noor, the former Minister of Information of the Southwest administration, who currently serves as the director of the Tubsan Agency.

As of the latest reports, no group has stepped forward to claim responsibility for these attacks, leaving the motives behind the actions unclear.

The security agencies have not provided any information regarding the incidents, and no casualties have been reported in connection to the earth-shattering kabooms.

These attacks have raised concerns about the safety and security of officials within the Southwest state, prompting a call for increased vigilance and investigation into the matter.

Baidoa residents and officials alike are awaiting further details from the security agencies regarding the perpetrators and the reasons behind the attacks.

As the situation develops, it is crucial for the Southwest state’s security apparatus to take swift and decisive action to ensure the safety of its officials and citizens.

The lack of information and the absence of a claim of responsibility have only added to the uncertainty surrounding the events.

Link

Africa Horn

Somalia: Grenade Attacks Target Southwest State Officials in Baidoa

2024-05-14

[SHABELLEMEDIA] In a shocking turn of events on Sunday night, two residential homes in Baidoa, the interim administrative capital of the Southwest state, were attacked by unknown assailants.

The attacks involved the hurling of hand grenades at the residences of prominent Southwest state officials, causing a stir among residents and security agencies.

The first attack targeted the home of Kurow Amhar, a member of the Darwish army within the regional administration. Shortly after, a second grenade was thrown at the residence of Ilyas Ali Noor, the former Minister of Information of the Southwest administration, who currently serves as the director of the Tubsan Agency.

As of the latest reports, no group has stepped forward to claim responsibility for these attacks, leaving the motives behind the actions unclear.

The security agencies have not provided any information regarding the incidents, and no casualties have been reported in connection to the earth-shattering kabooms.

These attacks have raised concerns about the safety and security of officials within the Southwest state, prompting a call for increased vigilance and investigation into the matter.

Baidoa residents and officials alike are awaiting further details from the security agencies regarding the perpetrators and the reasons behind the attacks.

As the situation develops, it is crucial for the Southwest state’s security apparatus to take swift and decisive action to ensure the safety of its officials and citizens.

The lack of information and the absence of a claim of responsibility have only added to the uncertainty surrounding the events.

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.

Link

Good Morning

2024-04-02

6 American, 2 Australian cruise ship passengers stranded on African island after Norwegian Cruise refused to let them board

04/02/2024

Police arrest sister of Hamas leader Haniyeh in southern Israel raid

greta-garbo-photo-u54.

Caucasus/Russia/Central Asia Russia says 4 arrested for funding, arming Moscow concert attackers		Africa Horn India rescues Iranian fishing vessel hijacked by pirates off Somalia
Africa Horn A suspect apprehended for grenade attack on mosque in Baidoa, Somalia		Olde Tyme Religion Trailer with hundreds of bibles inside are set on fire and left outside Tennessee church on Easter Sunday
Caucasus/Russia/Central Asia Analysts assess the reasons for the intensification of the underground in the North Caucasus		Caucasus/Russia/Central Asia Iran alerted Russia to security threat before Moscow attack, sources say

Angie Harmon accuses Instacart delivery
driver of shooting and killing her dog

Link

Africa Horn

A suspect apprehended for grenade attack on mosque in Baidoa, Somalia

2024-04-02

[ShabelleMedia] On Saturday night, security officers in Baidoa, the Bay region’s capital, captured a suspect in a hand grenade attack on a mosque in the southern town.

According to a police officer, people helped apprehend the individual during a security operation, and he is now being held at the Baidoa cop shoppe.

The city is part of Somalia’s Southwest state, and its security is primarily provided by Æthiopian troops, some of whom are not part of the AU operation.

"Immediately following the incident, security forces detained the individual. I urge the people to work with security officials to prevent anything that could jeopardize the area’s security," the officer stated.

Located around 250 km southwest of Mogadishu, Baidoa’s security has lately improved as a result of enhanced army operations targeted at securing the town.

Officials say al-Shabaab

... the personification of Somali state failure...
has severely times attempted to seize the town, after launching attacks and imposing road blockades for the past years, but the group failed on its mission.

Link

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