MOGADISHU – Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency, NISA, says more than 23 Al-Shabaab militants were killed during coordinated security operations carried out this week in the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions.
In statements released Tuesday, the agency said the operations were conducted in cooperation with international partners and targeted fighters allegedly preparing attacks in several districts of Hirshabelle State.
According to NISA, the operations followed actionable intelligence indicating that Al-Shabaab had mobilised militants in the Waab-weyn and Goobo areas near the Maxaas district in Hiiraan. The group was reportedly led by a commander identified as Mustaf Caato. Security officials said another cell was assembling in the Maxaa Saciid area of Middle Shabelle.
The agency said the most recent strike took place late Monday night in Moqokori district, Hiiraan region, where a militant base was destroyed. NISA stated that fighters stationed at the site included members of the group’s so-called Hisbah units, who were believed to be involved in preparing attacks in the region.
Officials described the operations as pre-emptive measures aimed at disrupting planned assaults against civilian and government targets. NISA did not provide independent verification of the casualty figures.
Somalia has intensified military and intelligence operations against Al-Shabaab in recent months as authorities seek to weaken the group’s operational capacity and stabilise central and southern parts of the country.
NISA reaffirmed its commitment to expanding counterterrorism efforts, stating that operations will continue to disrupt militant networks and safeguard national security.
