BELEDWEYNE, Hiiraan (Kaab TV) – The Somali National Army conducted a successful operation on the outskirts of Beledweyne city, capturing weapons and a vehicle destined to the Al-Shabaab militant group, according to Mohamud Hassan Ibrahim (Baakay), commander of the 5th Battalion, 27th Division.
Commander Baakay announced that the seized weapons included 13 rounds of AK-47 rifles, which were allegedly being transported to Al-Shabaab when intercepted.
“Behind me are the guns seized from the terrorists. They were carried in this vehicle, which, like the guns, is brand new,” stated Commander Baakay during a briefing.
The commander explained that the operation was based on intelligence reports, which indicated the car’s involvement in delivering weapons to Al-Shabaab.
“For two days, we had information about this vehicle and the weapons it carried. We acted on this intelligence and succeeded in intercepting it before it reached the terrorists,” he added.
Although the driver of the vehicle managed to escape, the Somali National Army confiscated the weapons and the vehicle.
“Within an hour of the operation, the weapons were handed over to the Somali government. These arms were destined for the terrorists,” said Commander Baakay.
The operation highlights the ongoing efforts of the Somali National Army to disrupt Al-Shabaab’s supply chains and weaken the group’s capabilities in the region.