#Somali National Army and Allied Forces Repel Major al-Shabaab Attack, 60 Killed, 50 Wounded

The Somali National Army (#SNA), supported by local forces, repelled a major al-Shabaab assault in El-Dheer district, killing more than 60 militants and wounding over 50 others, officials confirmed.

Somalia’s Minister of Defense, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, said the attack took place before dawn and resulted in heavy losses for al-Shabaab. “The enemy’s death toll has surpassed 60, with over 50 others wounded in the failed assault,” he said, adding that several militants were captured alive, reports SONNA.

Among those killed were two senior al-Shabaab leaders, identified as Daadullah and Sabir, according to an official statement. Minister Fiqi said the militants were forced to retreat, leaving many of their dead behind.

The SNA and allied local forces have continued operations up to 20 kilometers outside the district to pursue fleeing militants. The effort is being supported by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), which is conducting targeted airstrikes on retreating fighters.