The Somali National Army in coordination with the U.S. forces, conducted an airstrike in the Adan Yabal district of the Middle Shabelle region, just hours after Al-Shabaab militants took control of the area.

The Somali government confirmed that the joint operation, carried out late last night, resulted in the deaths of 12 Al-Shabaab fighters, including senior commanders.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, the strike targeted a location that the militants were using as a hideout.

“The airstrike targeted a location where the Khawarij [Al-Shabaab] militants had gathered and were using as cover. Preliminary information indicates that 12 members, including militia and commanders, were killed,” the statement said.

The statement also emphasized that no civilian casualties were reported.

This airstrike follows Al-Shabaab’s takeover of Adan Yabal district the day before. The government said the attack was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen military operations against Al-Shabaab, with the help of international partners such as the United States, to ensure liberated areas remain secure and do not fall back into militant hands.

The U.S. military command in Africa (AFRICOM) has not yet commented on the operation.