EL-DHEER, GALGUDUUD – The Somali National Army (SNA) and local forces have delivered a devastating blow to Al-Shabaab militants in the El-Dheer district. The victory was confirmed by Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, who stated that the terrorists suffered significant losses, with many captured alive, following a pre-dawn attack.
According to Minister Fiqi, the enemy’s death toll has surpassed 60, with over 50 others wounded in the failed assault. The terrorists were forced to flee, leaving their dead scattered on the battlefield, a clear sign of their heavy defeat. A number of the attackers were also captured alive during the operation. Among the slain militants were two senior Al-Shabaab leaders, identified in an official statement as Daadullah and Sabir.
The SNA and local forces are continuing to pursue the remnants of the attackers, with the operation extending up to 20 kilometers outside the district. The pursuit is being supported by Somalia’s international partners, specifically U.S. AFRICOM, who are conducting targeted air strikes on the fleeing militants to ensure they are fully neutralized.
The successful defense and subsequent counter-operation in El-Dheer are a clear indication to the growing effectiveness of the SNA’s collaboration with local communities and international allies in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
