Thursday April 17, 2025
Somali National Army soldiers raise their fists in solidarity following a successful operation against Al-Shabaab militants near Baay Burjeed, close to Baidoa, on April 17, 2025. The military offensive, conducted in coordination with South West State forces, reportedly killed over 35 insurgents and dismantled several militant hideouts.
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali government forces and regional Darwish units from South West State killed more than 35 Al-Shabaab fighters in a coordinated military operation near Baidoa, military officials said Thursday.
The operation targeted Baay Burjeed, a rural settlement about 15 kilometres from Baidoa, the largest city in South West State. Intelligence reports indicated that Al-Shabaab militants were planning attacks in the area, prompting a swift military response.
Government troops stormed a suspected militant base, killing several fighters, including field commanders. More than 60 others were reportedly injured during the assault. At least 18 bodies were recovered from the scene, according to a statement from Somalia's Ministry of Information.
Security forces also destroyed key Al-Shabaab outposts and weapons caches in the area. Commanders said follow-up operations were underway to track militants who fled the scene, many of whom are believed to be seriously wounded.
Residents in nearby villages were credited with sharing intelligence that contributed to the operation's success. Officials praised their cooperation and reaffirmed the government's commitment to eradicating Al-Shabaab's presence in the Bay region.
The successful raid comes a day after Al-Shabaab militants seized the strategic town of Aadan Yabaal in the Middle Shabelle region following a coordinated multi-pronged assault. The town, which had been under government control since its liberation in late 2022, served as a key staging base for Somali counterinsurgency operations. Its loss marks a significant symbolic and tactical setback for the federal government.
In response to the seizure, a U.S. airstrike conducted in coordination with Somali forces killed at least 12 Al-Shabaab fighters, including senior commanders, late Wednesday night. The strike, carried out by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), targeted a compound where militants had gathered following their takeover of the town.