MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somali troops began recovering bodies of Al-Shabaab militants killed in a battle in Ceeldheer, leaving dozens dead and wounded on both sides.
Somalia’s defense ministry said at least 60 Al-Shabaab fighters were killed and over 50 wounded during Friday’s pre-dawn attack in Galgaduud region.
Al-Shabaab claimed to have killed 61 soldiers and wounded 72 others, releasing photos of seized vehicles and prisoners of war from the battle.
Government forces, supported by local militia, repelled the assault on military positions, securing the town amid ongoing security operations in the area.
Photos released by state media show soldiers gathering bodies for mass burials, while troops expand operations to prevent further militant attacks nearby.
Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi confirmed some bodies were left behind; forces destroyed an explosives-laden vehicle before it could reach its target.
Six government soldiers were killed, and 14 others wounded during the battle, the ministry said. Officials say the situation has now stabilized.
Government leaders and opposition figures have praised the army’s efforts following the fighting, expressing hope for improved security across the region soon.
