By Sayyid Omar

The office of the President of Hirshabeelle announced that its forces, with support from the Somali National Army (SNA) and local militias, successfully repelled an Al-Shabaab offensive launched on Thursday in several districts of Hirshabeelle.

The militant attack targeted key areas, including Ceel Cali Axmed, Al-Kowsar, Daarul-nimca, Cali Fool-dheere, Miir-taqwo, and Ceel-Baraf—regions the government had regained control of between 2022 and 2023.

“Hirshabeelle assures the Somali people that the Khawaarij’s attempts to reclaim strategic towns and villages liberated three years ago have been completely foiled,” the statement read.

The Somali government also released a statement listing five senior Al-Shabaab operatives killed in the clashes:

1. Hassan Abdiwahid Abdi Dhicisow (AKA Bagaax) – killed during the Al-Shabaab assault on Ceel Cali Axmed.
2. Daahir Buuxsade – a field commander within the group.
3. Anas – head of Al-Shabaab’s transportation unit.
4. Khaalid Jiis – another key field commander.
5. Caasam – a battalion commander within the militant group.

The Ministry of Information reported that 130 Al-Shabaab fighters were killed in the operation, with Somali forces seizing military vehicles and weapons from the militants.