Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has announced the killing of 16 Al-Shabaab militants, including two senior propaganda operatives, during coordinated counterterrorism operations in Hirshabelle State.
The operations targeted militant strongholds in the Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions, specifically in the Miirtaqwo and Tardo areas. NISA reported that these strikes destroyed vehicles, media equipment, and facilities used by the group.
Destruction of Al-Shabaab's 'Security House'
In Miirtaqwo, security forces demolished a facility described by Al-Shabaab as the "Security House." This site served as a storage and broadcast location for Al-Andalus radio, the group's media platform used to disseminate propaganda and coordinate activities.
The operation resulted in the deaths of Abdisamad Mohamed, head of Al-Andalus' propaganda unit, and Ali Salad, another key media member. Another militant sustained serious injuries during the raid.
Further Strikes in Tardo
In the Tardo area of Hiiraan, NISA forces eliminated 14 militants preparing for deployment to disrupt security in Goobo and Waabweyn. The operation also destroyed a Toyota Noah vehicle used by the militants.
Ongoing Efforts to Weaken Al-Shabaab
NISA emphasized that these operations are part of sustained efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities by targeting its leadership, communication networks, and logistics.
Al-Shabaab has been engaged in an insurgency in Somalia for over a decade, frequently attacking government and civilian targets. The group’s media outlets, including Al-Andalus radio, play a critical role in recruitment and propaganda.
The Somali government, with support from international partners, continues to intensify military campaigns to reclaim territories and disrupt the militant group's influence, focusing on dismantling their communication and command structures.
