KISMAYO, Jubbaland – Jubbaland’s regional forces have escalated operations against Al-Shabaab militants in Middle and Lower Jubba, with the recent success in Jamaame spurring soldiers to advance northward to Jilib, a longstanding militant bastion.
Reports indicate the elite Darawiish unit, Duufaan (The Storm), is readying for deployment as troops strengthen grip on the Jamaame-Jilib corridor. This essential supply route has long been controlled by Al-Shabaab.
Internal Security Minister Maj. Gen. Yusuf Hussein Dhumal, joined by Ministry Director General Hared Kales Abdi, visited the training camp on Sunday. Commanders noted Duufaan has finished advanced rapid-response and stabilization training, prepared for front-line roles.
The unit is poised to secure recently liberated zones and block militant incursions, after two weeks of substantial progress in Jamaame. Multiple militants died in Jamaame as forces advanced toward Jilib.
Officials state Duufaan’s deployment arrives at a critical juncture, with Al-Shabaab confronting reduced territory and growing pressure along the Juba River. Troops meanwhile sustain stabilization in Jamaame and adjacent villages following liberation advances.
Ground security teams maintain a firm presence to preserve order, shield civilians, and thwart disruptions as routine life resumes.
Locals have embraced the operations, showing initial signs of revived movement and community engagement. The district, once a key militant buffer, now falls under Jubbaland government authority.
Forces are solidifying gains by protecting nearby villages such as Manamufo, Araare, and Koban, while readying to advance further into Al-Shabaab’s Jilib stronghold, where most leaders reside.
