By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somalia’s elite Danab Special Forces have carried out a series of coordinated security operations across several locations in the Lower Shabelle region, as part of ongoing efforts by the federal government to counter militant activity and stabilise areas long affected by insecurity, military officials said.
The operations were led by the 161st Unit of the Danab Commandos, working in coordination with an armoured vehicle unit (MU). They were conducted in the areas of Basro, Baqdaad, Jambaluul and a number of surrounding villages, which security agencies say had recently been used by militants as hideouts, transit points and planning locations for attacks targeting both civilians and government forces.
According to security officials, the operation began in the Basro area, where Danab forces moved in following intelligence assessments indicating the presence of underground shelters and fortified positions. During the operation, troops dismantled and destroyed several suspected militant hideouts believed to have been used for concealment, storage of supplies and logistical coordination.
Military sources said militants fled the area as the operation intensified, abandoning their positions after failing to withstand the advance of the security forces. Troops later expanded the operation to the Jambaluul and Baqdaad areas, where additional structures used by militants were identified and dismantled.
Security officials said the operations have helped restore a degree of calm and stability in the affected communities, some of which had faced repeated security threats in recent weeks. Troops have since established temporary security positions and carried out patrols aimed at reassuring residents and preventing militants from returning.
Military officials added that pursuit operations are continuing in nearby rural and wooded areas, as security forces attempt to track down militants who escaped during the raids. They said the operations form part of a broader counter-insurgency strategy aimed at degrading militant networks, limiting their freedom of movement and improving overall security in Lower Shabelle.
Lower Shabelle, which lies south of Mogadishu, has remained a key focus of security operations due to its strategic location and history of insurgent activity. Somali authorities say sustained military pressure, combined with stabilisation efforts, is essential to improving long-term security in the region.
There were no immediate reports of casualties, and the claims could not be independently verified. Officials said further operations may be carried out in the coming days as part of continued efforts to secure the region and protect civilians.
