Mogadishu, (SONNA) — Somali National Army (SNA) forces, with intelligence support from NISA and in coordination with international partners, conducted a targeted airstrike against senior Al-Shabaab leaders and militants in Dib-dheer, Ceel-Buur district, Galgaduud region.
The precision strike eliminated several high-ranking Al-Shabaab figures, including:
1. Ahmed Macalin — Al-Shabaab commander of Ceel-Buur district.
2. Abu Salmaan — Al-Shabaab leader of Ceel-Garas, Galgaduud.
3. Hussein Ali Badal — Al-Shabaab leader of Xiindheere.
4. Budul Farah Geedi — Senior Al-Shabaab operative in Xiindheere.
5. Sakariye — Senior Al-Shabaab operative in Galgaduud.
In addition, several other operatives involved in spreading extremist propaganda were also neutralized:
1. Mire Cagdheer — Senior Al-Shabaab operative.
2. Muse Omar — Senior Al-Shabaab operative.
3. Mohamed U Rur — Senior Al-Shabaab operative.
4. Haji Bashir — Senior Al-Shabaab operative.
The Somali National Army confirmed that the operation is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s network and followed a previous offensive on March 13, 2025, when local Macawiisley fighters clashed with militants in Bay-Caadle village.
The targeted militants were reportedly gathering in Maalin Nugur to pressure local communities into joining their ranks while planning retaliation against the Macawiisley fighters.
The Somali government reiterated its commitment to eradicating Al-Shabaab and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
