The Somali National Army has confirmed a significant victory against Al-Shabaab in a joint operation conducted in the Lower Shabelle region. According to official reports issued on June 8, 2025, approximately 25 militants were killed during the raid. The operation, carried out by the army alongside elite Danab special forces units, targeted a known Al-Shabaab safe haven .
During the raid, troops also seized a substantial cache of weapons, including 17 AK‑47 assault rifles, one RPG‑7 launcher, and a PKM machine gun . Somali government sources highlighted that at least three senior commanders within Al‑Shabaab were among those killed, although the identities of these individuals were not disclosed; the army described this as a “high-profile military operation” carried out by the Danab forces .
The Lower Shabelle region remains a strategic area of operation for both Somali forces and Al-Shabaab militants. The government’s latest offensive reflects its ongoing commitment to dismantling entrenched militant networks and reclaiming territory through coordinated, intelligence-driven actions .
Strikes a significant blow to Al-Shabaab in a key region, targeting their leadership and supply lines.
Demonstrates the growing operational capacity and coordination of Somali forces, especially the Danab special units trained with international support.
Signals a broader push by the Somali government to restore stability and weaken militant strongholds ahead of ongoing peace and reconstruction efforts.
