Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) said Sunday that it had carried out an operation against the Al Qaeda-affiliated terrorist group Al Shabaab, killing 13 members, including five of its so-called leaders.
The operation took place in the vicinity of Maha Saed in the Middle Shabelle, targeting an Al Shabaab leaders’ meeting.
“The targeted bloodthirsty leaders were holding a meeting where they intended to plot terrorist conspiracies and pressure local communities into giving forced support. However, intelligence forces foiled their scheme after their activities were brought to an end at the scene,” NISA said in a statement.
The agency identified the slain leaders as Moalim Aseyr, Moalim Muhumed Ahmed Hassan, Sheikh Ali Guuraale, Abdirahman Sheikh Ali Dhegey, and Moalim Adey.
Targeted operation
It said they were responsible for terrorist operations carried out by the group in the regions of Middle Shabelle, Galgaduud, and Bay.
“Up to eight conspirators, including three leaders, were also seriously injured in the operation,” the agency said.
The operation disrupted planned terrorist activities in three provinces, according to Somali Information Minister Daud Aweis.
The Al Qaeda-affiliated terrorist group has been fighting the Somali government for more than 16 years, frequently targeting security forces, officials, and civilians.
Since July last year, the Somali army, with the support of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and other international partners, has stepped up operations against Al Shabaab.
The AU mission’s mandate was renewed by the UN Security Council in December for another year, with a resolution extending its authorisation until Dec. 31.
