**Title: More than 30 Al-Qaeda-linked militants killed in Somalia**
In a significant military operation, Somali government forces have reported the elimination of over 30 Al-Shabaab militants in the Middle Shabelle region. This development was announced by the Defense Ministry on Friday, detailing a series of coordinated airstrikes that targeted key militant positions.
The operations spanned several days and focused on three specific locations: Gayfo, Ruun Idiris, and Ali Gaduud. According to Somali officials, these sites were identified as crucial command, training, and logistics hubs for Al-Shabaab, a group linked to Al-Qaeda that has been active in the region since 2007.
The airstrikes commenced on June 24, when a militant mobilization center in Gayfo was targeted. This facility was reportedly used for storing weapons. The following day, three additional strikes were executed, which included a training facility in Ruun Idiris and a gathering of militants in Ali Gaduud, where they were allegedly preparing for future attacks.
The Defense Ministry's statement confirmed that the strikes resulted in the deaths of approximately 30 militants. In addition to the fatalities, the operation also led to the destruction of two vehicles, three motorcycles, and a significant cache of weapons and ammunition utilized by the group.
Al-Shabaab has been known for carrying out regular attacks across various African nations, particularly in the Sahel region. The group aims to destabilize the Somali government and regional security structures while attempting to impose its strict interpretation of Sharia law.
This recent operation follows a similar offensive conducted in April, during which Somali forces claimed to have killed 22 Al-Shabaab militants, including a senior commander named Abdirahman Jeeri, in a joint ground and air operation in the Lower Shabelle region. Earlier in March, Somali troops also reported the elimination of nine terrorists in a separate operation in Lower Shabelle, alongside two other operations that resulted in the deaths of 22 additional fighters.
The Somali government has been actively engaged in combating Al-Shabaab, with military operations aimed at reclaiming territory and reducing the group's influence in the region. The recapture of the strategic Hawaadley area in Middle Shabelle from Al-Shabaab earlier this year is one of the notable achievements in this ongoing fight against the insurgency.
As the Somali government continues its efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab's operational capabilities, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing military operations aimed at ensuring stability and security in the region.