Bardaale (Raxanreeb Online) – In a significant blow to the Al-Shabaab militant group, Somali security forces in the district of Bardaale have successfully carried out a targeted operation in the Kooney area, resulting in the death of a senior militant figure known as Macalin Qaddiid.

According to security officials, Macalin Qaddiid was a key operative in the group’s extortion network, overseeing the collection of so-called “Sakaawaad” — illegal taxes forcibly taken from civilians living in areas under Al-Shabaab control in the Bay region.

The operation was launched after intelligence sources confirmed his presence in the area, along with a group of armed militants. Acting swiftly, the security forces raided the location, killing Qaddiid on the spot. During the operation, they also recovered an AK-47 rifle and a Fekon motorcycle, which were in the possession of the militants. Some members of the group reportedly fled the scene.

Officials say the mission marks an important step in ongoing efforts to restore stability and protect civilians in the region. Residents of Bardaale and surrounding areas have long suffered under the group’s illegal tax schemes and intimidation tactics.

Authorities have vowed to continue similar operations aimed at dismantling Al-Shabaab’s local networks and ensuring lasting peace for communities in southern Somalia.