Monday June 24, 2024
A Yemeni national, believed to be an Al-Shabaab operative, was captured by Somali National Army and local forces in the El-dher district of Galgaduud region. The suspect was apprehended while attempting to flee by boat from the Mareeg beaches area. (Photo credit: SONNA)
Dhusamareb (HOL) —The Somali National Army (SNA) and local forces in the El-dher district of the Galgaduud region have captured a foreign national believed to be an Al-Shabaab operative. The suspect, identified as a Yemeni national, was apprehended while attempting to flee by boat from the Mareeg beaches area. This arrest marks a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab's presence in central Somalia.
Military sources report that the capture was made possible through information provided by local residents of El-dher district. Upon interrogation, the suspect admitted to being a ringleader in the Galgaduud region.
The capture comes on the heels of recent reports of collaboration between Al-Shabaab and Houthi rebels. According to U.S. intelligence sources, the Houthis have been supplying Al-Shabaab with sophisticated weaponry and logistical support, raising concerns about the potential escalation of violence in the region.
A recent article from VOA News highlighted how Al-Shabaab has been reversing some of the gains made by Somali forces, thanks in part to support from the Houthis.
This alliance between the two groups has allowed Al-Shabaab to bolster its capabilities and expand its operations, and security experts fear it could lead to an increase in coordinated attacks and a surge in violence.
Last week, Somali government forces targeted several Al-Shabaab hideouts in Galgaduud, leading to the capture and elimination of numerous militants. The operation is part of broader efforts to eliminate Al-Shabaab hideouts in central Somalia.