MOGADISHU, Somalia – More than 30 civilians lost their lives and dozens were injured on Tuesday night during a Somali special forces operation near Afgooye, residents reported.
The attack also destroyed homes and displaced hundreds. Villagers stated that the deadly raid in Jambaluul, located about 40 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu, was executed by Somali army Danab commandos who received training from the U.S. Africa Command [AFRICOM].
Families were asleep when the attack occurred, and there was no fighting in the area prior to the assault. While the Somali government described the operation as a “special operation” targeting Al-Shabaab militants, residents denied the presence of any militants during the Danab attack that resulted in civilian casualties, according to local accounts.
Medical staff at the main hospital in Afgoye town confirmed treating over 100 wounded civilians, with some transferred to Mogadishu for further care.
Community members have expressed growing concerns about civilian safety and the broader security environment.
The incident underscores the persistent challenges in Somalia, where counterterrorism operations conducted by government forces alongside their U.S. counterparts frequently endanger civilians, impeding efforts to bring stability to the Horn of Africa nation.
