The Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) say their troops have successfully liberated Daarusalaam and Mubarak, strategic strongholds of al-Shabaab in the Lower Shabelle region of Somalia.
These locations had previously served as key strategic strongholds and safe havens for the militants who have been waging an insurgency against the Somali government since 2006.
Operation Rolling Thunder, conducted as part of the broader Operation Bader during the holy month of Ramadan, directly targeted facilities used by the militants as illegal courts to intimidate and oppress civilians, hideouts sheltering senior operatives, and sites from which explosive attacks and other terrorist acts against innocent civilians were planned and launched.
During the course of the operation, al-Shabaab militants were dealt a significant blow, the jont forces said.
Several command positions, weapons depots, and military equipment caches were destroyed.
Somali National Army forces have now fully secured the liberated areas, and mopping up operations are ongoing to pursue fleeing insurgents.
The Ministry of Defence and the Somali National Army Command reaffirm that operations against the militants will be intensified to ensure the safety and security of the Somali people and to eliminate all their remaining sanctuaries.
The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) and Head of AUSSOM Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, on Wednesday congratulated Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) and AUSSOM troops for successfully liberating the strategic locations.
Diene said the joint operation, conducted with international partners, resulted in the full capture and securing of two strategic locations, which had long served as strongholds and safe havens for al-Shabaab.
Diene commended the courage, professionalism and sacrifice demonstrated by Somali and AUSSOM forces during the operation.
“This achievement reflects the growing capability, determination and professionalism of Somali security forces, alongside AUSSOM troops both supported by international partners. The liberation of Daarusalaam and Mubarak sends a clear message that terrorist strongholds will not endure in the face of our unified and sustained action,” said Diene.
MG/as/APA