Somali Military Airstrike Kills Six Al-Shabaab Militants in Lower Shabelle

EAST AFRICA — The Somali military carried out an airstrike in the Ugunji area of Lower Shabelle on May 22 targeting Al-Shabaab militants who had regrouped within the location.

The statement reported that the strike killed six militants and destroyed weapons and equipment, noting that the operation was carried out in coordination with international partners.

While the United States was not explicitly mentioned and U.S. Africa Command has not yet issued a statement, the U.S. has been conducting continued supportive airstrikes within in the country against ISIS fighters and Al-Shabaab.

Airstrike Against Regrouping Al-Shabaab Militants

The Somali National Army conducted the airstrike against Al-Shabaab members who had regrouped in the Ugunji area of Lower Shabelle. The Ministry of Defense said that the operation killed six militants and destroyed weapons and equipment.

What to Watch

• Monitor the Ministry of Defense and AFRICOM channels for follow-on statements on partner involvement or battle damage details.

Official Statements

• Somali Ministry of Defense, May 22: “The Somali National Armed Forces, in coordination with international partners, conducted an airstrike in the Ugunji area of Lower Shabelle region targeting members of the terrorist group Al-Shabaab who had regrouped in the area. The airstrike resulted in the killing of six Al-Shabaab militants and the destruction of weapons and equipment. The Somali National Armed Forces will continue to intensify operations against the terrorist group Al-Shabaab to ensure the security and stability of the country.”