Lower Shabelle (KAAB TV) – United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has confirmed conducting targeted airstrikes in the Sabib and Aanoole areas of Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region. The strikes were carried out at the request of the Federal Government of Somalia and were aimed at disrupting al-Shabaab (AS) militant activities in the region.
In an official statement, AFRICOM noted that the airstrikes were coordinated with Somali government forces and specifically targeted al-Shabaab operatives in the Sabib area.
“In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces conducted airstrikes in the Sabib area, resulting in multiple casualties,” AFRICOM said in a press release.
While the United States has not released official figures regarding the number of casualties or the identities of those targeted, the strikes come at a critical time. Somali government forces have intensified their military campaign against al-Shabaab in Lower Shabelle, with ongoing operations designed to reclaim key territories under militant control.
Senior Somali military leadership, including Ground Forces Commander General Sahal Abdullahi, is currently on the ground in both Sabib and Aanoole. The general confirmed that the national army is working to stabilize and secure areas recently liberated from al-Shabaab control.
“Our forces are ensuring the overall security of Sabib and Aanoole, and we are preparing to expand operations to liberate additional areas from terrorist elements,” said General Abdullahi.
The Somali National Army (SNA), in collaboration with African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops—particularly Ugandan contingents—has recently regained control over these strategically important locations. The recapture of Sabib and Aanoole marks a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to weaken al-Shabaab’s grip on southern Somalia.
These joint operations underline the growing cooperation between Somali forces and international partners in the fight against terrorism and underscore the commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region.