Mogadishu – The Somali federal government has released details of a precision airstrike carried out in coordination with a foreign partner in the Jibd Godni area of Central Shabelle region, within Hirshabelle State.

According to an official statement, the operation resulted in the killing of at least 17 Al-Shabaab militants who were reportedly planning attacks against local communities in Central Shabelle. The strike also destroyed vehicles and weapons belonging to the group.

The government noted that Somali forces, alongside local fighters known as Ma’awisley, have recently intensified operations against Al-Shabaab in Central Shabelle, with air support used selectively to disrupt militant movements and prevent planned attacks.

The latest strike reflects a broader effort by Somali authorities to apply sustained military pressure on Al-Shabaab strongholds, combining ground operations with targeted air support to weaken the group’s operational capabilities in key regions.