Somali National Army’s elite forces (Danab) killed 18 Al-Shabaab militants and injured several others during a highly effective offensive operation on Saturday afternoon in Budbud and Galcad areas in Galgadud region, under the administration of Galmudug State.

Abdirahman Yusuf Al-Adala, the Deputy Minister of Information, confirmed that the Army successfully destroyed Al-Shabaab hideouts, dismantled their networks, and eliminated key leaders in the operation.

He further reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Somali National Army, regional forces, and international partners to expel Al-Shabaab from the country as soon as possible.

The army officers also raided Al-Shabaab storage areas, where they discovered stockpiles of chemicals and other explosive devices.

This operation takes place amidst Somalia’s preparations to launch the second phase of its campaign against Al-Shabaab, driven by concerns over the group’s frequent attacks within the country.