The Somali National Army (SNA) yesterday launched “Operation Banooda”, aimed at eradicating Al-Shabaab militants present in the territories of the Southwest State of Somalia.
During a planned operation on the outskirts of the Leego area in the Bay region, the Somali National Army, specifically the Danab Commandos neutralised Al-Shabaab militants who attempted to obstruct the forces and it has been confirmed that seven Al-Shabaab members were killed in the clash, while several others sustained injuries.
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It is reported that in the course of the operation, the Somali National Forces also seized various types of weapons that had been in the possession of the Al-Shabaab militants and the Army continues its operations to pursue Al-Shabaab members who fled the scene of the engagement.
The Somali Ministry of Defence has commended the heroes of the Somali National Army, who today delivered a stern lesson to the Khawarij (Al-Shabaab) and commenced their operation with a significant victory.
The heavy fighting between units of the Somali National Army and Alshabab militants occurred on the road between Leego and Buurhakaba in Southwest State.
It is reported that the 3-hour long battle began when troops from the 64th Battalion of the 1st Brigade, 12 April Division, traveling on the road were ambushed by Alshabab with Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIEDs).
Reliable sources reported that both sides suffered casualties, including fatalities, but the Somali government has yet to comment on the incident.
The Operation Banooda is now targeting the area in the outskirts of the Leego (Ligo) and subsequent special forces operations in southern Somalia have since reported an additional 15 Al-Shabaab fighters killed and 8 captured in a nighttime raid.
Additional Reporting from Associated Press.
