Mogadishu, August 17, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) killed at least 30 al-Shabaab militants and captured several others after thwarting an early Monday attack in the central town of Baidoa, Somalia’s Defence Ministry said.
According to the ministry, SNAF positions came under attack around 5 a.m. local time by armed elements using vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices.
The ministry said the attacking force comprised al-Shabaab militants as well as militias loyal to Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, President of Somalia’s Southwest State.
“SNAF responded professionally and decisively, repelling the attack and thwarting the assailants’ attempt to destabilise the security and stability of Baidoa,” the ministry said in a statement.
Security forces seized weapons and vehicles used in the assault and continued clearance operations to secure the city and locate remaining fighters in parts of Baidoa.
Residents reported heavy fighting in Baidoa on Monday morning as SNAF troops clashed with militias loyal to Laftagareen alongside al-Shabaab elements. While local opposition figures claimed to have captured the city, military officials rejected the claim and said security operations were continuing.
SNAF has controlled Baidoa since March, when its forces took control of the city, prompting Laftagareen to resign.
Separately, Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), backed by international partners, said it killed eight al-Shabaab militants, including three senior commanders, in a targeted operation on Sunday in the central region.
NISA said the operation took place in the Tardo area of Hiran region and resulted in the deaths of three senior leaders and five guards, while four other militants were wounded.
The agency said the operation eliminated high-value targets responsible for regional operations, including the head of an extortion network in eastern Hiran and commanders of the Jabhada militia and Fursan wing.
The authorities said joint counter-terrorism operations have helped recapture several al-Shabaab positions and destroy key hideouts and storage facilities as security forces continue operations against remaining militants.
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