Somali National Army Clears Al-Shabaab Militants from Key Villages Near Awdheegle in Lower Shabelle

The Somali National Army (SNA), in coordination with the ongoing “Silent Storm” (Duufaanta Aamusan) offensive, has successfully driven Al-Shabaab militants out of several areas surrounding Awdheegle district in the Lower Shabelle region. Among the newly liberated locations is Tawakal village, which had long served as a hideout for the extremist group.

According to military sources, the operation took place early Monday as part of the third phase of the nationwide anti-insurgency campaign. The Somali forces—backed by intelligence units and local informants—launched coordinated ground assaults targeting Al-Shabaab’s defensive positions and underground bunkers used by the militants to evade air surveillance and military strikes.

After several hours of fighting, the army regained full control of the Tawakal area and nearby settlements. Commanders on the ground reported that the militants suffered heavy casualties, while no civilian harm was recorded during the engagement.

Awdheegle, located approximately 75 kilometers southwest of Mogadishu, holds significant strategic value due to its proximity to key agricultural zones and major supply routes that connect the capital with southern Somalia. Al-Shabaab has repeatedly attempted to use the area as a launch point for ambushes and bomb attacks on both military convoys and civilian traffic.

Military analysts say the operation marks a crucial step toward securing Lower Shabelle, one of the regions most affected by Al-Shabaab’s insurgency. The “Silent Storm” campaign, launched earlier this year, aims to systematically dismantle Al-Shabaab’s remaining rural strongholds and restore government authority in liberated territories.

An SNA spokesperson praised the troops for their discipline and effectiveness, noting that “the heroes of the Somali National Army are relentlessly pursuing the militants wherever they hide.” He added that the recent operations are part of a long-term stabilization plan aimed at ensuring that liberated areas remain secure and that displaced civilians can safely return.

Security officials also confirmed that joint reconnaissance patrols are underway to clear landmines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) left behind by the militants, which pose a lingering threat to both military and humanitarian movements.

The Somali government, in partnership with the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and international allies, has intensified its military pressure on Al-Shabaab throughout 2025. Recent joint operations in Lower Shabelle, Middle Jubba, and Bay regions have reclaimed several key territories previously under militant control.

This renewed military momentum comes amid a broader national campaign to stabilize newly liberated areas, re-establish local administrations, and support the implementation of community policing and reconciliation programs to prevent the resurgence of extremist influence.

The latest victory near Awdheegle underscores the Somali National Army’s growing operational capability and determination to eliminate Al-Shabaab’s presence in southern Somalia. With the “Silent Storm” operation entering its decisive stages, military officials remain confident that sustained pressure—combined with community resilience—will pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the Lower Shabelle region.