Somali Forces Execute Successful Operations Against Al-Shabab Militants
Somali security forces neutralized six attackers in a hotel siege in Beledweyne, killing at least 50 al-Shabab militants in subsequent airstrikes. These operations are part of President Mohamud’s total war strategy against al-Shabab, with additional measures taken to close media outlets promoting extremist content.
Security forces in Somalia reported a successful operation against militants in Beledweyne, where they neutralized six attackers involved in a hotel siege. The assault concluded early Wednesday, with Beledweyne District Commissioner Omar Osman Alasow confirming the deaths of the assailants who targeted a venue hosting traditional leaders and security officials. Notably, Al-Shabab, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, asserted responsibility for the attack that occurred on Tuesday.
For 18 hours, government soldiers, supported by African Union troops, engaged in efforts to rescue individuals trapped within the hotel. Alasow indicated that the confrontation resulted in the death of two militants, while four others detonated explosives when confronted by security forces. Unfortunately, seven individuals, including government officials and traditional elders, also perished during the siege.
Following a declaration by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for a “total war” against al-Shabab in August 2022, Beledweyne has become a focal point for community mobilization efforts against the group. Notably, the area has experienced a high incidence of terrorist activities, being second only to Mogadishu in terms of attacks on civilian and government targets since 2009.
After the conclusion of the siege, Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) reported a series of airstrikes that resulted in the deaths of at least 50 al-Shabab militants. The assaults, in coordination with international partners, struck the Middle Shabelle region and significantly impacted the group’s operational capacity.
The airstrikes specifically targeted locations in Damasha and Shabeelow, leading to the death of Mansoor Tima-Weeyne, a key al-Shabab figure involved in managing combat vehicles. The Somali Military Command acknowledged this operation as a major setback for al-Shabab, reinforcing ongoing initiatives aimed at diminishing terrorism in the region.
In addition to military actions, NISA also announced the closure of 12 media outlets associated with al-Shabab, aimed at mitigating the spread of extremist ideologies. This action followed previous measures to shut down over 30 related websites, as part of the government’s commitment to combat misinformation and violence incitement.
In summary, Somali forces successfully concluded a hotel siege in Beledweyne, eliminating six attackers and responding with airstrikes that killed 50 al-Shabab militants. These actions align with President Mohamud’s intensified campaign against terrorism, particularly in regions heavily impacted by al-Shabab’s activities. Furthermore, the closure of media platforms affiliated with the group underscores the government’s efforts to curtail extremist ideologies and misinformation.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
