Somali National Intelligence Agency Reports Elimination of Over 23 Al-Shabaab Militants in Preemptive Operations in Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle

The agency stated the operations were carried out with the help of international partners, and followed intelligence on militant mobilization in multiple locations across Maxaas and Moqokori districts

SOMALIA — Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) announced February 24 that it conducted four planned operations during the week in districts of Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions, resulting in the deaths of more than 23 Al-Shabaab militants the agency stated were preparing attacks in Hirshabelle state areas.

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The agency stated the operations were carried out with the help of international partners, and followed intelligence on militant mobilization in multiple locations across Maxaas and Moqokori districts, with Commander Mustaf Caato identified.

Although U.S. forces and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) continue to operate alongside Somali units in Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle, no partner has been specifically identified in connection with these strikes.

U.S. Africa Command has not issued a public release on the operations, with its most recent statements dated February 18 and covering airstrikes conducted on February 16 and 17 in Harbole and the Golis Mountains.

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