The Somali National Armed Forces say they have killed nearly 75 Al-Shabaab militants and wounded 56 others in a major military offensive targeting the group's positions in Jameeca, Buurhakaba District, Bay Region.
The army said the assault was launched on October 26 under Operation Banooda and lasted several hours, with government forces engaging militants at multiple locations.
According to military officials, the operation inflicted heavy losses on the militant group as Somali troops pressed their offensive against its positions.
Al-Shabaab fighters reportedly deployed vehicles laden with explosives to target military transport during the clashes, damaging some army vehicles.
Despite the resistance, government forces maintained their offensive, with military officials describing the operation as part of a wider campaign to weaken the group's capabilities and prevent its fighters from regrouping.
The operation is intended to destroy Al-Shabaab positions, disrupt its activities and limit its ability to reorganise, the military said.
Following the assault, Somalia's Ministry of Defence and the Command of the Somali National Armed Forces commended the troops for their courage and sacrifice.
The defence leadership vowed to sustain the military campaign, saying the forces would not be deterred by Al-Shabaab or those accused of providing the group with support or shelter.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to continuing offensive operations against the militant group, saying the campaign aims to eliminate the terrorist threat and promote security, peace and stability across Somalia.
