Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) announced the elimination of 16 suspected al-Shabaab militants during targeted operations in the Middle Shabelle and Hiran regions.
According to a statement released on Saturday, July 25, 2026, the operations were conducted with assistance from unnamed international partners.
Middle Shabelle Operation Targets Propaganda Unit
In Miirtaqwo, Middle Shabelle, two members of al-Shabaab’s propaganda wing were killed. NISA described the facility targeted as a safe house used by the militants, where equipment for Al-Andalus Radio, the group’s propaganda outlet, was stored and subsequently destroyed.
Among the deceased was identified the overall head of al-Shabaab’s Al-Andalus propaganda department. Another suspected propaganda member was seriously injured in the operation. NISA referred to al-Shabaab militants as “Khawarij.”
Hiran Region Operations Kill 14 Militants
Separate operations near Tardo in Hiran resulted in the deaths of 14 fighters preparing to relocate to Goobo and Waabweyn. The militants allegedly intended to conduct activities aimed at destabilizing security in these areas.
The operations also led to the destruction of a Toyota Noah vehicle used by the group.
Ongoing Efforts to Weaken Al-Shabaab
NISA emphasized that these coordinated actions are part of sustained efforts to disrupt al-Shabaab’s recruitment, propaganda dissemination, and attack capabilities.
The agency urged Somali citizens to report any information related to al-Shabaab or Islamic State activities via designated communication channels.
Somalia continues to conduct military and intelligence-led campaigns against al-Shabaab, a group responsible for attacks within Somalia and neighbouring Kenya.
