KISMAYO, Somalia — Jubaland forces launched a rapid counteroffensive after heavy fighting with Al-Shabab militants erupted near Kismayo.
The clash occurred when Al-Shabab fighters reportedly massed near the port city, prompting an immediate response from regional security and intelligence units.
The regional forces conducted operations on Saturday, targeting suspected Al-Shabab positions and preventing further insurgent movement toward Kismayo.
Ismail Ali, a senior military official, said the operation aimed to secure the area and eliminate militant threats destabilizing the region’s fragile security.
“The operation was pre-planned, focused on degrading Al-Shabab’s capabilities, and has so far achieved its core objectives,” Ali said.
Fighting remains sporadic, with visible troop movements by Danab Special Forces and Jubbaland soldiers reported throughout Kismayo and surrounding areas.
The militants reportedly attempted to regroup in nearby villages, leading to brief clashes during the security sweep.
Al-Shabab recently attacked a Danab military base on Kismayo’s outskirts, continuing its campaign against Somali and allied forces in southern Somalia.
Lower Juba remains volatile, with small contingents of U.S. military personnel working alongside Danab units stationed near Kismayo.
Al-Shabab, affiliated with al-Qaida, has intensified attacks despite ongoing offensives aimed at dismantling its presence in southern and central Somalia.