At least five soldiers from Somalia’s elite Danab Special Forces were reportedly killed and four others wounded in a landmine explosion in the Yaq Domar area, approximately 25 kilometers from the Balidogle military base.
According to preliminary reports, the troops were conducting a military movement in the area when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED) planted along the route.
Sources said one of the fallen soldiers was transported to Mogadishu, while the remaining four were buried in Balidogle.
The exact circumstances of the incident and the identities of the casualties have not yet been officially confirmed.
Roadside bombs remain one of the deadliest threats facing Somali security forces, particularly units operating in areas where Al-Shabaab maintains an active presence.
Danab, one of Somalia’s most capable special operations units, plays a leading role in counterterrorism operations against Al-Shabaab and frequently conducts missions across southern and central Somalia.
The incident comes as Somali security forces continue efforts to strengthen military operations and expand pressure on militant groups operating throughout the country.