Mogadishu – The Somali Federal Government has confirmed that its forces, alongside local community fighters, repelled an Al-Shabaab assault on Ceeldheer town in the central Galgaduud region early Saturday.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Defense, officials said government troops inflicted heavy losses on the militant group.

“More than 30 Khawaarij militants were killed, and several others – including well-known commanders – were captured alive,” the ministry said.

The ministry also reported casualties among government troops. Six Somali National Army soldiers were killed and 14 others sustained minor injuries while defending the town.

Security officials said joint forces are now pursuing fleeing militants in surrounding areas as part of a wider operation to secure Ceeldheer and eliminate Al-Shabaab cells.

The incident underscores Somalia’s ongoing struggle against the extremist group, which continues to mount attacks despite intensified military campaigns in central and southern regions.