The Somali National Army (SNA), particularly the 8th Battalion of the 60th Division, has conducted a security operation in areas located between Baydhabo and Buurhakaba in the Bay region, military officials have confirmed.

The operation targeted locations and hideouts used by Al-Shabaab along the main road linking the two towns, where the group had reportedly been harassing civilians and threatening the safety of travellers. Forces under the command of the 8th Battalion commander, Gaashaanle Ali Mohamed Aden, also cleared and destroyed roadside bombs planted on key routes vital for the movement of people and commercial transport.

In a statement, the Federal Government of Somalia said the operation focused on clearing Al-Shabaab militants and disrupting attacks they were preparing against the public. The statement noted that the army “foiled plots that would have endangered the lives of civilians and the safe movement of vehicles by neutralising explosives planted along the roads.”

Commander Ali Mohamed Aden said the operation concluded successfully and stressed that security forces will continue similar operations across the Bay region to protect civilians, secure newly liberated areas, and reinforce overall stability.