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Kenyan troops, participating in the African Transition Mission in Somalia, collaborated with Somalia security forces in a successful operation at Weel-Maarow village.
During the operation, they apprehended a minibus containing Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). According to officials from Jubaland state, more than 30 militants were killed in the operation.
However, Somalia’s Ministry of Information reported a higher number of 40 militants killed, while some managed to escape with gunshot wounds.
Intelligence reports revealed that the captured minibus was intended for Al Shabaab attacks in the Boni enclave in Kenya.
The militants had prepared the IEDs for deployment.
The joint military forces conducted the operation last night at Weel-Maarow, which is located 43 kilometers northwest of Afmadow town.
Along with the minibus, they also recovered three Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs), seven AK47 rifles, over two hundred thousand Kenyan shillings, and various food items.
Major Mohamed Dahir Farah, the Spokesman for Jubaland Security Forces, expressed optimism about the progress made in degrading Al Shabaab’s capabilities.
He stated, “We are hopeful to eventually degrade Al Shabaab. We are also working hard with our international partners to prevent attacks and strengthen our forces in order to protect Somalia after the African Transition Mission’s exit next year.”
Kenyan forces have been actively involved in countering Al Shabaab in Somalia since 2011. They have intensified security operations in the country’s northeastern and coastal regions.