Somalia’s state media reported on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, that more than 15 militants from the Al-Shabaab group were killed in a joint military operation carried out by the Somali National Army (SNA) and international partners in the country’s southern region.

According to the Somali National News Agency (SONNA), the operation targeted Al-Shabaab hideouts in the Ali Gadud Mosque area of Middle Shabelle province, part of the Hirshabelle State.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts to clear rural areas from militant control, with reports confirming the destruction of weapons caches and command centers belonging to the group.

The Somali government, supported by African Union and international forces, has been conducting a large-scale military campaign since last year to regain control of Al-Shabaab-held territories in southern and central Somalia.