Mogadishu (Dawan Africa) — The Somali National Army (SNA), alongside the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), has recaptured the towns of Sabiid and Aanoole in the Lower Shabelle region. These towns, which had been strongholds of the militant group Al-Shabaab, were seized in a decisive operation that highlights Somalia’s ongoing commitment to eliminating the group’s presence from the country.
General Ahmed Gaashaan, Commander of the 7th Battalion of the 12th Division of the Somali National Army, described the operation as a critical victory in Somalia's fight against terrorism. From the frontlines, General Gaashaan emphasized the importance of this achievement, underscoring its role in restoring stability and security to a region that has suffered greatly due to Al-Shabaab’s insurgency.
“We have liberated two crucial areas, Sabiid and Aanoole, which will disrupt Al-Shabaab's logistical operations,” General Gaashaan stated. He added that Somali forces would continue to advance their operations across the Lower Shabelle region and other territories still under Al-Shabaab’s control.
The successful capture of these towns is part of "Operation Silent Storm," a joint military initiative between the Somali National Army and AUSSOM. The operation aims to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s strongholds in rural areas of southern Somalia, which the group has long used to stage attacks against both Somali security forces and civilians.
A statement from the Ministry of Defence confirmed the liberation of Sabiid and Caanoole, calling it another significant milestone in the broader effort to push Al-Shabaab out of Somalia. The Ministry expressed confidence that the operation would continue to produce positive results in the weeks ahead.
"Under the implementation of Operation Silent Storm, the Somali National Army and AUSSOM have achieved a major victory by fully liberating Sabiid and Caanoole," the Ministry stated.
The early successes of Operation Silent Storm have already been visible. In previous stages, Somali forces captured high-ranking Al-Shabaab militants, seized significant amounts of weaponry, and destroyed key Al-Shabaab hideouts.
These military victories come at a pivotal time as Somalia prepares to mark its 65th Independence Anniversary. The Somali government has expressed optimism that the ongoing momentum from Operation Silent Storm will further contribute to regional stability and help mitigate the ongoing threats posed by Al-Shabaab.
Somalia’s leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the success of Operation Silent Storm, with plans for additional military engagements aimed at reclaiming Al-Shabaab-controlled areas and securing the long-term safety of the country’s citizens.
