By HAN News Desk
MAHAS — At least three Al-Shabaab fighters have been killed in a joint military operation carried out overnight by Somali government forces and local militia known as Ma’awisley in Goobo village, near the town of Mahas in the central region of Hiiraan.
Security officials told HAN News that the operation targeted an area where Al-Shabaab militants were believed to be regrouping and planning attacks against government positions and civilians.
The forces reportedly launched a surprise attack on the militants’ hideout, killing three and seizing three assault rifles.
The troops later withdrew safely to their bases after completing the mission.
Residents in Goobo confirmed hearing heavy gunfire during the operation, which lasted for several hours. There were no immediate reports of casualties among government forces or civilians.
Hiiraan has been one of the frontlines in Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab, where government troops and local militias have worked together to reclaim territory from the militant group.
Over the past year, joint operations have succeeded in driving Al-Shabaab out of several key villages, though the group still maintains a presence in remote areas.
Military officials say the latest offensive is part of a broader effort to secure rural communities and disrupt Al-Shabaab’s supply routes in central Somalia.
“Our forces are determined to continue these operations until Al-Shabaab is eliminated from Hiiraan and neighboring regions,” one military source said.
The Somali government has repeatedly praised the role of local militias in supporting the national army, describing their cooperation as crucial in the war against terrorism.
