Lower Shabelle (SONNA) — Somali National Army (SNA) forces conducting ongoing security operations in the Lower Shabelle region have uncovered large caches of weapons, ammunition, and military equipment hidden by Al-Shabaab militants in underground pits in the recently liberated Jilib Marko area.
The discoveries were made in several coastal locations, including forested and low-lying areas stretching between Jilib Marka and the Number 60 area in Lower Shabelle. Military officials said the militants had deliberately concealed the supplies beneath the ground to support their operations and target local communities.
According to the SNA, the seized items include a wide range of weapons, such as shoulder-fired heavy weapons, light arms, and large quantities of ammunition. The militants had intended to use the stockpiled arms to carry out attacks against civilians and security forces.
In addition to weapons, troops recovered water containers and barrels that had been hidden underground after the militants were cut off from their previous water sources. Military uniforms that had been buried for an extended period were also found among the caches.
The army said the recovered equipment highlights the significant setbacks suffered by Al-Shabaab following the intensified “Silent Storm” operations currently underway across Lower Shabelle. During these operations, several militant leaders and fighters have been killed.
Local community forces are playing a key role in the ongoing campaign, working closely with the national army and providing critical knowledge of former militant hideouts and defensive positions to ensure the complete elimination of the group.
The Somali National Army said operations will continue along the coastal areas of Lower Shabelle as troops pursue fleeing militants who escaped from recently liberated areas, reaffirming the government’s commitment to restoring lasting security and stability in the region.
