The National Army Engages in Heavy Fighting with Al-Shabaab on the Outskirts of Leego

Lower Shabelle – The Somali National Army has engaged in heavy fighting with militia members of Al-Shabaab, while the forces were conducting operations against the group in the areas between Leego and Iidow Jalaat in the Lower Shabelle region.

A press release from the Ministry of Defense of the Federal Government of Somalia stated that the fighting took place in the area of Shanta Baraako, located on the outskirts of Leego district, after government forces encountered Al-Shabaab militia members who were gathering there.

The ministry stated that the Somali National Army defeated the militia in the battle and destroyed the positions the group had in that area.

On the other hand, sources said to be close to Al-Shabaab indicated that the fighting resulted in the deaths of key members of the group, whose names were mentioned as Cabdifitaax Gaalgooriyow and Cabdulqaadir Xuseen.

These two individuals were said to be responsible for the movement of the roads used by Al-Shabaab leaders in the area between Leego and Buurhakaba, particularly at the junctions of Jiiro Yaasiin, Jiiro Kuulow, Iidow Jalaat, and Dhargo, which connect important roads between the northern and southern regions of Somalia.

The Somali National Army operating under the name Operation Banooda has been conducting operations in recent days to pursue Al-Shabaab militia and to verify the security situation in those areas.

These operations are part of the efforts of the Federal Government of Somalia to ensure the security of important roads and to weaken the power of Al-Shabaab, in order to secure peace, stability, and the movement of the Somali people.