By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — Somali security forces have taken full control of the Yaaq Bari-Weyne area in Wanlaweyn district following a series of coordinated security operations aimed at restoring order, enforcing court rulings and dismantling armed groups operating in the region, officials confirmed on Monday.
Troops from the Somali National Army (SNA), supported by the South West State Darawiish forces, entered the area over the weekend in what was described as a targeted operation to stabilise a locality that has witnessed growing insecurity in recent months. Officials say the deployment is part of a wider campaign to reassert government authority in rural areas and enforce verdicts issued by the country’s military courts.
During the operation, security forces recovered several vehicles that had been abducted by an armed group in the area. According to the military, the group responsible had recently been sentenced to death by the Somali Military Court, but some of its members remain at large. Authorities believe the fugitives may be hiding in nearby villages, prompting the expansion of operations to surrounding areas.
Senior officers leading the mission held a formal meeting with traditional elders, religious leaders and local community representatives to discuss cooperation in locating the convicted individuals. Military officials urged residents to support the government’s efforts by providing information, stressing that community engagement is essential for ensuring lasting security.
“Our goal is not only to execute the court’s ruling but also to prevent further criminal activity and restore public confidence in security institutions,” one senior security officer told reporters on the ground. “We are working closely with local leaders to ensure the entire community participates in securing this region.”
The presence of armed criminal groups in parts of Lower Shabelle has long posed a challenge to both federal and regional security forces, with incidents of abductions, extortion and targeted killings reported periodically. The government hopes that the latest operations will help deter similar activities and create conditions for improved governance and service delivery.
Officials say the security sweep in Yaaq Bari-Weyne is ongoing and will be expanded to other settlements under Wanlaweyn district in the coming days. Authorities expect the widened operation to help flush out remaining suspects, stabilize the area and reinforce the rule of law.
The Somali government has in recent months increased the use of joint federal–state security operations, particularly in areas where criminal networks and armed groups exploit weak local administration. Analysts say such operations will continue to play an important role as Somalia seeks to expand state presence and rebuild public trust after decades of instability.
