Two Senior militants killed as Somali Forces secure key routes in Lower Shabelle

The Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) have killed several Al-Shabaab militants, including two senior commanders, during heavy clashes in the Shanta Baraako area near Leego district in the Lower Shabelle region.

In a press release issued on Thursday, 12 November 2026, the military said its forces engaged Al-Shabaab militants during pursuit operations in areas between Leego and Lidow Jalaat, successfully defeating the militants and destroying their positions.

The military identified the two senior commanders killed in the fighting as Abdifitaah Gaalgooriyow and Abdulqaadir Hussein, whom it accused of overseeing militant activities and coordinating movements along key routes between Leego and Buurhakaba.

According to the statement, the two “commanders were responsible for securing movement routes used by senior Al-Shabaab leaders, including strategic junctions such as Jiiro Yaasiin, Jiiro Kuulow, Lidow Jalaat and Dhargo, which connect major routes in southern and northern Somalia” .

The operation was conducted under Operation Banooda, with Somali forces continuing pursuit operations and security assessments aimed at improving stability in the affected areas.

The military said the operations form part of broader efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab positions, secure strategic transportation routes and ensure the safety and freedom of movement of civilians.

The latest operation comes amid continued Somali military campaigns against Al-Shabaab in various parts of the country.

Mustaqbal