Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The Federal Government of Somalia has issued a strong caution to the civilians residing in the areas of Ceel-Buur and Galhareri, as National Army plans to launch ground offensive operations against Al-Shabaab militants within the next few hours.

The spokesperson of the Ministry of Defense, General Abdullahi Ali Anod, has appealed to civilians to exercise vigilance and avoid areas that are near to the militants’ bases or hiding places, to protect themselves from any civilians harm.

“The government has intensified its commitment to the second phase of our campaign against Al-Shabaab, which has involved a series of operations aimed at eliminating these enemies from our land. As at now, our focus is on Ceel-Buur and Galhareri towns in Galgudud region. In the upcoming hours, the Army will start ground operations in these regions,” he announced.

He continued, “We urge the residents of these areas to remain vigilant throughout these operations. We strongly advise those living near Al-Shabaab bases or hiding areas to evacuate immediately, ensuring their safety.”

The Spokesperson further highlighted that government forces, alongside local community forces known as ‘Maawisley,’ have successfully recaptured new areas from Al-Shabaab through joint operations.

“Our armed forces, in conjunction with local forces, have liberated new locations from the enemy in the regions of Lower Shabelle and Bay, particularly Baladul Amin, Baladul Karim, and Bulo Fulay through operations that were conducted within the last three days,” stated the Spokesperson.

This caution from the government comes three days after an airstrike operation in Galhareri killed at least eight civilians, including a three-year-old child.

Furthermore, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is presently in Dhusamareb, the administrative capital of Galmudug State, to speed up the ongoing ‘Black Lion Operation’ and mobilize the local community to fight against the militants who have caused terrorist attacks in the country for the last 16 years.