Somali forces launch fresh airstrike against Al-Shabaab in Lower Shabelle

Somalia’s government forces, backed by its international partners, have conducted an airstrike targeting roadblocks reportedly mounted by Al-Shabaab fighters to extort the public in Lower Shabelle.

A report released by the government revealed that the targeted operations hit Al-Shabaab positions at Furuqley village near Qoryoley District in the Lower Shabele Region, causing unspecified casualties. The government is yet to release full information on the number of Al-Shabaab members or civilians killed during the operation.

The operation comes as government forces intensify their strikes against the group’s bases across the country which has seen several areas liberated. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud backed by top government leaders has vowed to continue the war against the militants until every part of the country is liberated and normalcy restored.

Recently, the national army chief pledged the resumption of the anti-al Shabaab war in the country after it was “temporarily” halted due to the recently concluded holy month of Ramadan.

Recall that the Somalia government recently reported that approximately one hundred al-Shabaab members have surrendered across the South-Central states of Galmudug, Southwest, HirShabelle, and Jubaland.

According to the Ministry of Information, the wave of defections from the group has been welcomed by the government, which is now urging more militants to take advantage of the amnesty offered by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

The government’s efforts to combat al-Shabaab have been bolstered by the support of the international community.

the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), and other international partners have assisted in the fight against terrorism, helping to create the conditions necessary for peace and stability to take root.

Afri Reporters reported that the European Union (EU) recently approved 116.9 million U.S. dollars for stabilization efforts in Somalia.

The funds, approved by the Political and Security Committee of the Council of the EU, will support the transition process for the Somali National Army (SNA) and for the military component of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), the EU said.