On July 5, Somali National Army units, supported by local self-defence forces, carried out a series of targeted operations against al-Shabab militants in the Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle, and South West regions. The operation began with the repulsion of a pre-dawn attack near Gumarre, close to Moqokori in the Hiiraan region, in which at least ten militants were killed. Subsequently, Somali forces struck strategic targets in the villages of Guulane, Daaru-Nicma, and Al-Kowsar, eliminating the al-Shabab commanders Mohamed Adow and Ali Xabad, who were accused of systematic violence and extortion. A logistical and medical centre in Moora Godan, in the Raaga Ceelle district, which was used for operational coordination and the treatment of wounded militants, was also dismantled. Further neutralisations were achieved in parallel operations in Baani, Lafoole, and Abal (South West State). The Ministry of Defence emphasised the effectiveness of the actions and the central role of cooperation between regular forces and local communities.
Massimo Serresi
