Mogadishu (KAAB TV) – The Minister of State for the Ministry of Defense of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hon. Omar Ali Abdi, has provided further details on the recent military operations targeting Al-Shabaab militants in the Lower Shabelle region, emphasizing the success and strategic importance of the offensive.
According to Minister Omar Ali Abdi, the operation—part of the broader national campaign known as Operation Silent Storm—was executed according to plan, resulting in significant losses for the Al-Shabaab group. Somali National Army (CXD) forces, supported by allied units from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), successfully dislodged Al-Shabaab fighters from their hideouts in the Sabeed and Aanoole areas.
“Our brave national forces, alongside AUSSOM troops, broke through enemy strongholds in Sabeed and Aanoole,” the Minister stated. “They arrested several members of the Khawarij [a term used to refer to Al-Shabaab], who will be presented to the public in due course.”
Minister Omar also reported that Al-Shabaab had sabotaged key infrastructure by destroying a vital bridge in Lower Shabelle using a landmine explosion. “The enemy continues its efforts to paralyze our progress by targeting critical infrastructure. Just yesterday, they destroyed one of our strategic bridges with explosives. But their destruction will not go unanswered,” he affirmed.
He added that during the operation, Somali and allied forces recovered a cache of weapons that Al-Shabaab had hidden in caves and fortified positions in the targeted areas. These recovered arms will be used to further bolster ongoing efforts to secure the region.
In his remarks, the Minister of State extended praise to the forces involved in Operation Silent Storm, recognizing their bravery and contribution to the nationwide campaign to liberate Somalia from the grip of extremist militants.
“The Ministry of Defense proudly commends the courage and commitment of the Somali National Army and AUSSOM troops. Their sacrifices are paving the way for a more secure and stable Somalia,” he concluded.
The Somali government continues to intensify its military campaigns in southern and central regions, aiming to fully eliminate Al-Shabaab’s presence and restore peace and governance to all corners of the country.