Somali forces killed all six attackers in a hotel siege in Beledweyne and later conducted airstrikes that killed 50 al-Shabab militants, including a key commander. The operations underscore ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in Somalia, driven by the government’s intensified measures against the extremist group. Additionally, twelve media outlets linked to al-Shabab were closed as part of a campaign against extremist propaganda.
Somalia’s security forces reported the elimination of six assailants involved in a recent hotel siege in Beledweyne, a central town. The siege, which ended on Wednesday, involved government soldiers and African Union troops working through the night to rescue hostages. District Commissioner Omar Osman Alasow confirmed that two militants were neutralized, while four detonated explosives when escape became impossible, resulting in seven fatalities, including government officials and traditional elders.
Beledweyne has become a focal point in the fight against al-Shabab, particularly since President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s declaration of a “total war” against the group in August 2022. The area, located approximately 300 kilometers north of Mogadishu, has faced numerous attacks on hotels, restaurants, and government installations, with a particularly deadly incident in 2009 causing significant casualties.
Following the hotel siege, Somali security forces, alongside international allies, conducted coordinated airstrikes in the Hirshabelle region. The airstrikes reportedly resulted in the death of at least 50 al-Shabab militants, including a senior leader responsible for coordinating combat vehicle operations. The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) highlighted that this operation notably diminished the group’s operational capabilities.
In an additional counterterrorism effort, NISA announced the closure of 12 media outlets linked to al-Shabab, aimed at curbing extremist narratives. This action follows a prior crackdown on over 30 websites affiliated with the group. The government emphasized its intent to disrupt platforms that incite violence and spread misinformation, while also collecting critical data during these operations.
The recent military actions by Somalia’s security forces demonstrate a committed effort to combat terrorism, particularly against the al-Shabab group. The successful conclusion of the hotel siege and subsequent airstrikes reflect strategic efforts to enhance regional security. Moreover, closing media outlets associated with extremist ideologies illustrates a broad approach to countering terrorism by addressing propaganda and misinformation.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
