Somali forces killed six attackers in a hotel siege and later conducted airstrikes, leading to the deaths of 50 al-Shabab militants. The military actions follow a recent directive for a total war against the terrorist group, coinciding with local mobilization efforts. Additionally, 12 media outlets connected to al-Shabab were closed as part of anti-terrorism operations.
Somali security forces successfully eliminated six assailants who attacked a hotel in Beledweyne, killing more than 50 al-Shabab militants shortly thereafter. Beledweyne District Commissioner Omar Osman Alasow announced the siege’s conclusion early Wednesday, confirming the deaths of attackers who targeted a gathering of elders and officials.
According to Alasow, the combined efforts of Somali soldiers and African Union troops allowed for the rescue of civilians and military personnel trapped inside the hotel. During the protracted 18-hour standoff, two militants were shot dead, while the others detonated their explosives as escape became impossible. Tragically, the siege resulted in seven fatalities, including security officials and notable traditional elders.
Since President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud declared a “total war” against al-Shabab in August 2022, Beledweyne has seen intensified local mobilization against the group. Located approximately 300 kilometers from Mogadishu near the Ethiopian border, the town has experienced a higher frequency of terrorist activity than all of Somalia aside from the capital. Notably, a significant attack in 2009 claimed 25 lives and injured 60.
Following the hotel siege, Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) reported extensive airstrikes that killed at least 50 al-Shabab militants, including key leaders in the Hirshabelle region. Targets were specifically the Damasha and Shabeelow areas, where operations resulted in the death of Mansoor Tima-Weeyne, responsible for the group’s combat vehicle strategies, marking a substantial setback for the militants.
On a related note, NISA announced the closure of 12 media outlets and websites linked to al-Shabab, which are often labeled as Khawarij, or those deviating from Islamic faith. This action followed a previous crackdown on over 30 al-Shabab-affiliated sites. The government aims to counter extremist ideologies and misinformation, having seized critical information during the operation.
The Somali forces have made significant advancements against al-Shabab through direct combat and strategic airstrikes, resulting in notable militant casualties. With the closure of extremist media outlets, efforts to suppress violent narratives are also underway. Continued community mobilization and military collaboration are essential in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
