MOGADISHU, March 16 — Units of the Somali National Army, including elite Gorgor and Danab commandos, carried out a planned security operation in parts of the Middle Shabelle region, military officials said on Monday.
The operation targeted several villages near the area of Xaaji Cali, where troops conducted searches and security checks aimed at preventing infiltration by fighters from the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab.
Commanders leading the mission said forces combed through the targeted settlements to ensure militants could not hide among local communities or carry out attacks against civilians. The troops also established temporary bases in the area to reinforce security and maintain a sustained presence.
The operation was led by Cabdiwali Januune, commander of the 184th Battalion of the 18th Gorgor Brigade, and Maxamed Cabdulqadir Diiriy, commander of the 164th Battalion of the 16th Danab Brigade.
Such operations form part of ongoing efforts by the Somali National Army to bolster security and counter the insurgency by Al-Shabaab, which continues to operate in parts of the country.
