An Al-Shabaab fighter identified as Ali Mohamed Olow has surrendered to the Somali National Army (SNA) in Mubaarak area of Lower Shabelle region after fleeing ongoing military operations, according to state media.
Officials said the militant escaped from operations targeting armed groups in the Ugunji area before handing himself over to government forces. During the surrender, he reportedly turned over an AK-47 rifle and ammunition.
According to state media reports, Olow admitted that he had previously participated “in armed activities in Hiiraan, Lower Shabelle, and Middle Shabelle regions before deciding to surrender” .
The former fighter said he chose to give himself up due to increasing military pressure and sustained operations by Somali forces against Al-Shabaab positions.
The surrender comes as Somali security forces continue offensives aimed at weakening militant networks and encouraging defections from the group.
Mustaqbal
