In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike against al Shabaab on June 19, 2025.The airstrike occurred in the vicinity of Sabiid, Somalia.AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade al Shabaab’s ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad.Specific details about units and assets will not be released to ensure continued operations security. In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted an airstrike against al Shabaab on June 19, 2025. The airstrike occurred in the vicinity of Sabiid, Somalia. AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade al Shabaab’s ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our citizens abroad. Specific details about units and assets will not be released to ensure continued operations security.

Sabiid, Somalia, June 22 – Somali government forces have seized control of the strategic villages of Sabiid and Caanoole in the Lower Shabelle region following a fierce battle with Al-Shabaab militants, military officials said Sunday. The offensive, part of a broader campaign against the Al-Qaeda-linked group, saw Somali National Army (SNA) troops launch coordinated ground operations that culminated in the liberation of the two settlements, long held by the insurgents. Heavy fighting broke out between government forces and Al-Shabaab fighters in areas surrounding Sabiid and Caanoole. According to the Somali military, the militants were pushed back after sustaining significant losses. General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, Commander of the Somali National Army’s Ground Forces, told reporters that the operations were meticulously planned and also included a separate offensive in Dhaji, a village located about 40 kilometers from the town of Xudur in Bakool region. “These operations dealt a decisive blow to the Khawarij (a term used by officials for Al-Shabaab), who were using these areas as key logistical and operational hubs,” General Sahal said. “Our forces destroyed weapons caches, training camps, and supply routes.” He added that local communities in the newly-liberated areas welcomed the arrival of government troops and pledged their support in efforts to stabilize the region. The Somali government has intensified its military campaign in southern and central Somalia, aiming to reclaim territory and dismantle Al-Shabaab’s operational infrastructure. Authorities have pledged that the fight will continue until the group is eradicated.

Mogadishu, 22 June 2025 – Ugandan troops serving with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) have recaptured strategic villages of Sabiid and Anole from Al Shabaab. This win came during a three-day joint operation code-named ‘Operation Silent Storm’, aimed at liberating areas under Al-Shabaab control in the Lower Shabelle region. Several Al-Shabaab fighters were neutralised during a prolonged siege of their hideouts in various parts of the villages. The forces also seized a substantial amount of ammunition from fleeing militants, clearing Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) planted in communities and supply routes.  “I commend the brave efforts of our gallant AUSSOM Ugandan troops and the Somali National Army in degrading Al-Shabaab. AUSSOM is fully committed to implementing the Somali Transition Plan, which will culminate in the transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali Security Forces,” said AUSSOM Force Commander, Lieutenant General Sam Kavuma, following the successful operation. Sector One Commander Brigadier General Joseph Ssemwanga emphasised that joint operations will continue in Lower Shabelle until Al-Shabaab threats are effectively addressed. “Sabiid-Anole has become a strategic location since March, where terrorists plan deadly attacks, conceal ammunition, including vehicles for Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), and establish illegal checkpoints to extort locals,” said Brig. Gen. Ssemwanga. Major General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, Commander of the Somali National Army’s Land Forces, also confirmed that ‘Operation Silent Storm’ successfully dismantled Al-Shabaab’s presence in the two villages. AUSSOM and SNA Forces are currently securing the recaptured villages and clearing remaining pockets of Al-Shabaab terrorists in Lower Shabelle’s Afgooye district. The operation aims to degrade and eliminate terrorists from Lower Shabelle and neighbouring areas.