Thursday March 20, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali forces, with the backing of international allies, carried out a highly coordinated airstrike in the Galgadud region, killing several senior Al-Shabaab commanders in what NISA officials described as a major blow to the extremist group's leadership.
The airstrike, which targeted a gathering of top militants in Dibdheere, EL-Buur district, was executed by the Somali Air Force in coordination with the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). Military officials said the strike was based on precise intelligence and was aimed at disrupting Al-Shabaab's command structure and operational planning.
Among those killed was Ahmed Moalim, the Al-Shabaab commander for El-Buur, alongside Abu Salman, a senior figure overseeing militant operations in EL-Garas, Galgadud. Hussein Ali Badal, Budul Farah Geedi, and Zakariye were also eliminated. They were all identified as key regional commanders.
Beyond the leadership figures, Somali forces also targeted militants responsible for intelligence gathering and logistical coordination. Those eliminated include Mire Agdheer, Muse Omar, Mohamed U Rur, and Haji Bashiir—individuals described by security sources as essential operatives facilitating Al-Shabaab's attacks across central Somalia.
A military statement confirmed that the operation was a direct response to Al-Shabaab's March 13 attack on local self-defence forces known as Ma'awisley in Bay-Caadle. The extremist group had attempted to overrun the village, triggering an intensified government response.
Intelligence reports suggested that Al-Shabaab leaders had gathered in Maalin Nuur to plan attacks on civilians and government-backed local militias, prompting the airstrike, according to the Somali military. Officials described the operation as a preemptive move to eliminate key threats before further assaults could be launched.
The Somali government has hailed the strike as one of its most successful air operations in recent months, emphasizing that the campaign against Al-Shabaab will continue with full force.
"This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to dismantling terrorist networks," the military said in a statement, noting that Somali and international forces remain engaged in counterterrorism efforts across the country.
Somalia has ramped up air and ground offensives in recent months, seeking to weaken Al-Shabaab's grip over rural territories in central and southern Somalia. The group, despite suffering significant losses, continues to launch attacks on military and civilian targets.