Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) announced a significant achievement in its ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab, stating that more than 23 fighters were killed in coordinated operations conducted this week. These operations were carried out in collaboration with international partners and focused on regions known for Al-Shabaab activity, particularly Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle. NISA highlighted that these operations were preemptive measures enacted due to intelligence reports suggesting that Al-Shabaab was mobilizing for attacks within Hirshabelle State.

The operations targeted specific areas where intelligence indicated the regrouping of Al-Shabaab militants, notably in Waab-weyn and surrounding locations in Hiiraan. Reports indicated that the militants were under the command of an identified leader, Mustaf Caato, and were preparing to launch further assaults. In particular, the strike on a militant base in the Moqokori district underscores the escalating efforts of government forces to dismantle Al-Shabaab's operational capabilities in the region by disrupting their plans to gather and launch attacks.

This latest development is part of a broader strategy by Somalia's government and intelligence agencies to tackle the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab. By targeting both leadership and militant bases, Somali authorities aim to weaken the group's influence and ability to carry out operations, thereby increasing security and stability within the affected regions, particularly in relocalizing movements to hinder their regrouping and operational capabilities.