SOMALI ARMY LIBERATE JALALAQSI TOWN FROM AL-SHABAAB MILITANTS
The Somali National Army (SNA), supported by local clan militias, has successfully liberated Jalalaqsi town in the Hiran region from Al-Shabaab militants following a well-coordinated military offensive.
Jalalaqsi, located about 160 kilometers north of Mogadishu, is known for its trading and agricultural activities along the Shabelle River.The river, originating in the Ethiopian highlands, flows southward for approximately 1,100 kilometers before merging with the Juba River near the Indian Ocean, providing essential irrigation for crops in the fertile valleysDuring the operation, Al-Shabaab militants offered minimal resistance and chose to retreat as the Somali Army and local clan forces advanced.
This takeover is particularly noteworthy as Jalalaqsi had been under Al-Shabaab’s control for over a decade. The town has recently been a focal point of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s efforts to mobilize local resistance against the extremist group Abukar Mohamed Hassan Mohamud, spokesperson for the Somali Ministry of Defence, highlighted the success of the joint operation in liberating key territories, including Burweyn and Shaw, which had been under Al-Shabaab’s control for decades.
He praised the coordinated efforts of the SNA, other security organs, regional forces from Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and Jubaland, and local clan forces fighting alongside the government.
Urging them “to remain committed to restoring peace and facilitating civilian return and reconstruction efforts.”Second Lieutenant Abukar Hassan noted that recent military operations in Hiraan and other regions, including Lower Shabelle, Bay, Lower Juba, Galgadud, and Mudug, were executed simultaneously. He emphasized the importance of these efforts in securing all parts of the Hiran region from Al-Shabaab’s influence.
Despite the victory, the liberated towns face numerous challenges, including the destruction of infrastructure such as homes, schools, and hospitals, leaving hundreds without essential services and safe shelter.The 17th Division of Danab Commanders oversaw the destruction of facilities used by militants for illegal operations in Bariire.
Local residents in Barrie district, approximately 30 km from Afgoye, confirmed witnessing the deaths of 20 Al-Shabaab members during clashes with authorities. Additionally, military operations led by the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) and the Somali National Army’s 4th October Division targeted areas previously controlled by the Al-Qaeda-aligned group.
The Department of Defence confirmed that the road between Kismayo and Afmadow has been reopened to the public, boosting logistical and strategic advancement for civilians and security forces. This reopening enhances Somali and Kenyan troops’ ability to reinforce their positions, supply fighters, and maintain connectivity between captured territories.
The reopening followed the defeat of terrorist elements by Danab commanders and the Jubaland Daraawiish Force, a paramilitary unit serving as the security force for Jubaland. Since October 2011, the Kenyan Defence Forces (KDF) have actively combated Al-Shabaab in Somalia’s Linda Nchi Operation, capturing Afmadowo and heading to the key port city of Kismayo , a major economic source and stronghold of the militants. Kismayo’s strategic importance made it a focal point in the military campaign, allied with the Raskamboni Brigade.
