Galguduud, Galmudug – Somali forces have delivered significant blows to Al-Shabaab extremists in central Somalia during a recent military operation that contributes to the nation’s ongoing stabilization efforts.
In Galgaduud region of Galmudug state, army troops destroyed militant hideouts, hampering the fighters’ activities across central areas. Security forces also gained control of a vital transport corridor during the operation.
The Somali National Army’s 242nd battalion conducted operations between the towns of Cali Yabaal and Geeriile junction. Key targets included a supply depot used by militants for both storage and accommodation.
Military intelligence indicated that the extremists were planning attacks against army positions and nearby civilians. The preemptive strike by government forces disrupted these intended assaults.
Captain Bashiir Qorane, the battalion commander, stated that intelligence revealed Al-Shabaab was using the area to organize operations and place threats along the main roadway. He confirmed the mission successfully thwarted multiple threats against civilian populations.
“Our forces eliminated the shelters where militants concealed themselves and planned attacks. We also secured the route connecting Cali Yabaal and Geeriile junction, which the insurgents utilized for movement and reorganization,” Qorane reported.
According to military sources, this operation forms part of a broader campaign to diminish Al-Shabaab’s influence in rural central Somalia. Recent months have witnessed heightened security operations as authorities work to reopen roads, restore essential services, and prevent cross-regional militant attacks.
Reports suggest Al-Shabaab representatives have engaged in indirect dialogue with Somali government officials, with Qatar and Turkiye facilitating these discussions. Although specific terms remain undisclosed, the militant group has experienced substantial territorial losses over the past two months due to ongoing military campaigns.
