Afgooye (Raxanreeb Online) – Somali National Army (SNA) forces, in coordination with Ugandan troops under the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), have successfully repelled an attempted Al-Shabaab attack on the villages of Sabiib and Canoole in the Lower Shabelle region.

According to military sources, the joint forces foiled the militants’ infiltration plans and engaged them in a fierce battle, killing at least 18 Al-Shabaab fighters.

During the clashes, four Somali soldiers were killed, while seven others sustained minor injuries. The wounded troops received immediate medical care.

The Ministry of Defence praised the courage and determination of Somali forces in protecting civilians and defeating the attackers. The Ministry also acknowledged the vital role played by international partners, particularly their air support, which inflicted heavy damage on the militants.

“The Federal Government of Somalia remains firmly committed to combating terrorism, ensuring nationwide security, and enabling the Somali people to live in peace and dignity,” the Ministry said in a statement.