The Federal Government of Somalia has stepped up its military campaign against Al Shabab with a series of coordinated air strikes aimed at weakening the group’s operational capacity and stabilizing key regions.
According to the Ministry of Defence and national media reports the latest operation took place early on April 6 when Somali forces supported by international partners carried out targeted air strikes in the Gasarta area near Baidoa.
Baidoa is the administrative capital of South West State and a strategic hub located about 245 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu.
Government sources confirmed that at least twelve militants were killed and several others injured.
Officials said the strikes are part of a broader strategy to degrade the group’s capabilities and strengthen security in vulnerable areas.
The Baidoa operation follows earlier missions on April 4 in Lower Shabelle where Somali forces killed nine militants in two separate engagements.
The developments indicate an intensifying pace of coordinated ground and air operations.
International support remains central to the campaign with US Africa Command reporting nearly fifty air strikes in Somalia during the first quarter of 2026.
These operations are conducted in coordination with Somali authorities to support counterinsurgency efforts.
The African Union mission continues to provide ground support under a UN mandate extended through the end of 2026.
Officials say the campaign is essential not only for security but also for enabling long term economic development including offshore oil exploration.
Authorities stress that sustained pressure is key to dismantling Al Shabab networks and restoring control over contested areas.
