More information has emerged about heavy airstrikes that took place today and last night in the Shabelle and Middle Jubba regions, targeting the Al-Shabaab militant group.
The first airstrike occurred in the Boos Hareeri and EelBa’ad areas of the Middle Shabelle region. The spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense, Abukar Sheikh Mohamed, revealed during a press briefing at the frontline that the strikes resulted in the deaths of senior Al-Shabaab commanders and fighters, as well as the destruction of the group’s vehicles.
A second strike hit the Lower Shabelle region, where an Al-Shabaab-constructed bridge used for crossing between Lower Shabelle Hoose and Middle Shabelle areas was destroyed. Abukar further mentioned that the airstrikes also targeted the vehicles used by the militants, which included trucks and small pickups.
He added, “The airstrikes destroyed vehicles that were being used by the Khawarij militants, including trucks and teedhi-sabano (local transport vehicles). The bridge used by Al-Shabaab to move between the two regions was also destroyed.”
Regarding the ongoing operations in Awdheegle, Abukar mentioned that Somali National Army (SNA) forces are continuing their efforts in the area and have inflicted significant damage on the militants. Despite reports that parts of Awdheegle were still occupied by the militants last night, operations are ongoing.
In another development, a third airstrike targeted Jilib in the Middle Jubba region, which is a stronghold of Al-Shabaab. Last night, warplanes attacked key targets within the town.
Abdirahman Al-Adaala, Deputy Minister of Information, issued a brief statement about the Jilib airstrike, stating that more details would be provided soon. He emphasized, “The operation against the Khawarij has reached Jilib, and you will receive further details soon. There will be no place or shelter for the Khawarij in our land.”
