Bariire, Somalia – The Somali National Armed Forces (SNA), backed by the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia’s successor—AUSSOM—have successfully captured and secured the strategic town of Bariire in the Lower Shabelle region following a week-long military offensive against the Al-Shabaab militant group.
According to military sources, over 100 Al-Shabaab fighters were killed in the joint operation, while several others were taken into custody. Somali troops also seized a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and logistical supplies during the offensive.
Bariire, located approximately 60 kilometers west of Mogadishu, has long been a vital stronghold and operational corridor for Al-Shabaab, enabling movement between southern regions and staging attacks on the capital. Its recapture marks a significant tactical and symbolic victory for government and allied forces.
SNA officials confirmed that a thorough clearance operation is ongoing to eliminate any remaining threats, defuse improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and ensure safe return for displaced civilians.
The Ministry of Defence hailed the operation as a “turning point” in the broader national campaign to eliminate Al-Shabaab from rural strongholds. AUSSOM commanders reaffirmed continued support for Somalia-led security efforts aimed at stabilizing liberated areas and expanding state authority.
This latest success comes amid an intensified push by Somali forces to retake territory ahead of AUSSOM’s eventual drawdown.