MOGADISHU — US Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted airstrikes against al-Shabaab militants in Somalia’s Middle Shabelle region on Wednesday, following intense clashes between the militants and government-aligned forces.
The strikes occurred near Nur Dugle, around 215 kilometres northeast of Mogadishu, after al-Shabaab fighters launched attacks on government positions and allied local militias in the area.
Residents reported heavy fighting, with both sides employing light and heavy weaponry, while explosions and gunfire were heard from surrounding areas.
“AFRICOM, in coordination with the Somali federal government and armed forces, continues to take action to reduce al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities,” AFRICOM said in a statement.
Casualty figures from the fighting have not been confirmed, though early reports suggest fatalities and injuries on both sides.
The airstrikes highlight the ongoing volatility in central Somalia, where al-Shabaab maintains a strong presence despite repeated counterterrorism operations.
