Elite commandos from Somalia’s Danab Special Forces unit have neutralized at least 25 Al-Shabaab militants—including three senior field commanders—in a carefully coordinated operation near the village of Gaalware, just four kilometers east of Sabiid and Caanoole in the volatile Lower Shabelle region.
According to the Somali Ministry of Defense, the weekend raid was a major success. Government troops not only dismantled an imminent militant plot but also recovered a large cache of weapons, including six PKM machine guns, two rocket-propelled grenade launchers, and 17 AK-47 rifles.
Authorities say the operation dealt a serious blow to the extremist group’s local capabilities.
“This mission demonstrates our unwavering commitment to securing Somalia and eliminating terrorism in all its forms,” the Ministry stated, emphasizing continued cooperation between national forces, allied militias, and international partners.
The operation is part of a broader military surge in southern Somalia, where security forces have increased pressure on Al-Shabaab elements in the regions of Lower Shabelle, Middle Juba, and Galmudug.
Security analysts view the elimination of senior operatives and seizure of weaponry as a tactical victory, one that further disrupts Al-Shabaab’s ability to stage attacks—especially as the group has struggled to maintain control of key territories in recent months.
Despite their diminishing grip on land, Al-Shabaab fighters have maintained a presence through hit-and-run assaults and improvised explosive devices. However, Somali officials say operations like this one are steadily eroding the insurgents’ influence.
The Somali government has pledged to maintain momentum, promising further action aimed at stabilizing conflict-prone regions and restoring peace and governance across the country.