Somalia’s elite Danab Commandos, in coordination with Jubbaland’s Dervish forces, killed more than 50 Al-Shabaab fighters during a joint military operation in the Lower Juba region, according to a federal government statement released Monday.

The operation, which lasted several days, focused on Maqooqaha and nearby villages—areas where Al-Shabaab militants had regrouped after a previous offensive in June 2025.

Caches Seized, Caves Destroyed

According to Somali authorities, the offensive resulted in the seizure of significant weapons and military supplies. Caves used by Al-Shabaab as hideouts and logistical hubs were also destroyed.

“More than 50 Khawarij militants, including key leaders, were killed in the operations,” the statement read, using the government’s term for Al-Shabaab. No names of the senior commanders killed were released.

Part of Ongoing Southern Counterinsurgency

This operation forms part of a broader campaign to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s presence in southern Somalia. It follows similar offensives in June that pushed the group from several strongholds in Lower Juba, as federal and state-aligned forces ramp up their counterterrorism efforts with support from U.S. and African Union partners.