BAIDOA, Somalia – Security forces from Somalia’s South West State on Sunday launched a major military operation against Al-Shabaab militants in several villages under Walanweyn district in the Lower Shabelle region, officials said.
The offensive targeted the areas of Yaaqbariwayne, Leego, and Carmoole, following intelligence reports that Al-Shabaab fighters were mobilizing in the region.
“Our forces responded swiftly and conducted a planned assault on militant positions,” said a military officer involved in the operation. “We killed several fighters, destroyed key installations, and regained control of the affected areas.”
Following the operation, South West State forces began sweeping the area to secure it from potential counterattacks and to stabilize local security.
Meanwhile, the main highway linking the capital, Mogadishu, with Baydhabo remains under Al-Shabaab control. Due to the persistent threat of roadside bombings and ambushes, top government and South West State officials have been forced to travel between the two cities by air.
Security sources say the militant group regularly stages attacks along the route, targeting military convoys and civilian vehicles.
The South West administration has urged local residents to cooperate with security forces and report any suspected militant activity, as operations continue to drive Al-Shabaab out of rural strongholds in southern Somalia.
