The Somali army, backed by African Union forces, has launched a large-scale military operation targeting Al-Shabaab strongholds in the Lower Shabelle region of southern Somalia, particularly in the strategic town of Bariire and surrounding areas.
The offensive is part of the federal government’s efforts to eliminate the remaining strongholds of the Al-Qaeda-linked group.
A senior military officer reported that government forces engaged in heavy clashes with the group’s fighters, resulting in significant casualties, while some militants fled to nearby villages where the army continues to pursue them.
Eyewitnesses stated that government forces used heavy gunfire, prompting residents to remain indoors for fear of being caught in the crossfire.
The Somali government has not yet released an official casualty report, and Al-Shabaab has not issued any statement regarding the clashes.
The group has been waging an armed insurgency for over 15 years, despite intensified military campaigns against it.
