Mogadishu (KAAB TV) — The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), in coordination with Somali national forces, has launched a new wave of military operations targeting the Al-Shabaab militant group in the Lower Shabelle region.
This joint campaign marks a significant escalation in efforts to dismantle the extremist group’s strongholds in southern Somalia.
According to a press release from ATMIS, the latest offensive was initiated following a fierce battle last Friday in the towns of Sabib and Aanoole.
The operation, conducted in partnership with the Somali National Army (SNA), reportedly resulted in the death of numerous Al-Shabaab fighters and the seizure of weapons and equipment.
“We are fully engaged in sustained security operations in the Sabib and Aanoole areas to neutralize the ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabaab,” the statement read. “Our forces successfully repelled an attack by the group and remain in full control of the battlefield.”
ATMIS further announced that it is planning additional large-scale offensives aimed at expelling Al-Shabaab from all territories it currently controls in Lower Shabelle. The mission emphasized its continued commitment to stabilizing the region and supporting Somali-led security initiatives.
In a separate statement, the Federal Government of Somalia confirmed the success of its security forces in repelling the Al-Shabaab assault. Government officials noted that counterterrorism operations are ongoing and that efforts to restore peace and security in the region are being intensified.
Due to the remoteness of the combat zones and restricted media access, independent verification of casualties remains difficult.
However, this operation signals a renewed and determined push by both ATMIS and Somali authorities to weaken Al-Shabaab’s grip on southern Somalia, particularly in regions where the group has maintained a significant presence.
The Lower Shabelle region has long been a strategic and contested area, and this latest development suggests that both national and international partners are stepping up their resolve to reclaim control and restore lasting peace.