Somali Army Launches Security Operation Against Al-Shabaab in Lower Shabelle

LOWER SHABELLE, Somalia — Somali government forces have carried out a security operation in areas between Sabiid, Caanoole and Bariire in the Lower Shabelle region, according to the Somali military.

The operation was conducted by the army’s 27th and 17th ground force brigades as part of efforts to strengthen security and protect civilians in the area.

The military said its forces thwarted attempts by Al-Shabaab militants to target local communities, particularly farmers living in the affected areas. The group was accused of attempting to extort money from farmers through clandestine operations.

Troops also conducted searches for landmines along roads linking the areas covered by the operation, the military said, as part of efforts to prevent attacks involving explosives planted by Al-Shabaab.

The army said the explosive-clearance operations were intended to reduce the risks faced by civilians using roads in the area, where landmines and improvised explosive devices pose a persistent security threat.

The Somali military said its forces would continue security operations aimed at protecting civilians and preventing attacks by Al-Shabaab.

The operation comes as Somali forces continue military campaigns against Al-Shabaab in central and southern Somalia, with government troops seeking to maintain pressure on the group and secure areas recovered during previous offensives.