BELEDWEYNE, Somalia [SMN] – Somali forces acting on intelligence raided a hideout of Al-Shabaab in the Hiran region, triggering an intense shootout, the country’s military said.
First Lieutenant Abdirashid Jelow, speaking to Radio Shabelle confirmed that fighter jets were involved in the offensive against Al-Shabaab in Beero-Yabal outside Bulo-Burde city.
He added that the SNA with the help of Ma’wisley, a clan militia allied with the government managed to seize control of the area after overpowering the Al-Shabaab fighters.
Al-Shabaab has a strong presence in central regions, where they have launched multiple attacks in recent months. Overnight in Hiran, Govt forces launched the operation after monitoring the insurgents for a week.
Since last year, the army has gained ground in its war with the Islamist insurgency Al-Shabaab, mainly in central Somalia, including Galmudug and HirShabelle states.
The military victory and territorial gains are due to the Federal government’s leveraging of local discontent with Al-Shabaab to form alliances with clan militias.
The government’s push marks a breakthrough in a war that has raged for 16 years.
