Monday June 8, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali Danab commandos carried out operations in several areas of Lower Shabelle region, targeting al-Shabab positions used to extort money from residents and vehicles, military officials said on Sunday.
The operations were conducted by the 161st Battalion of the 16th Brigade in Warmaxan, Tasxiille, Shareey, 10-Buundo, Tabeellaha and areas around Donka.
The army said Danab forces destroyed several fortified hideouts, tactical positions and illegal tax collection points used by the group.
Commanders said the operation disrupted al-Shabab’s defensive lines and forced fighters to retreat into rural areas.
“The operations are part of an ongoing campaign to weaken al-Shabab’s ability to control roads, intimidate civilians and finance attacks through extortion,” the army said.
Security forces have established positions in the areas cleared during the operation and are continuing patrols to prevent militants from returning, officials said.
Lower Shabelle remains one of the key regions in the federal government’s campaign against al-Shabab because of its proximity to Mogadishu and its importance as an agricultural and trade corridor.
Al-Shabab, which is linked to al-Qaida, continues to use taxation, checkpoints and intimidation to raise revenue in areas where it maintains influence, despite repeated military operations by Somali forces and international partners.
