Somali Govt Says It Will Step Up Fight Against Al-Shabaab

Somali military will intensify operations to fight against al-Shabaab in the country, a military commander said.

Speaking to newly Turkish trained Somali soldiers in Mogadishu, Deputy Force Commander of the Somali National Army, Mohamed Ali Barise said the forces will take part in operations to defeat al-Shabaab in the country.

“The troops will be joining other forces fighting Shabaab in central and southern Somalia, this is one of the steps to secure the nation and defend it from the terrorists,” he said.

Over hundred soldier of Somalia elite forces known as Gorgor forces who completed training course in Turkey have returned the country on Friday.

They welcomed at the airport by Somali Defence minister Defense Minister Hassan Ali Mohamed and military commanders.

According to Somali National News Agency, the minister said they will play a key role in the government’s efforts to stabilize the country, adding that the Somali forces are ready to stabilize on how the Somali people can cope with the pressure on al-Shabaab terrorists.

The minister expressed his Government commitment to defeat terror group and restore stability in the country saying saying the government prioritized the formation of the armed forces, adding that special military training will take place.

Somali army backed by African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) have been fighting al-Shabaab fighters in different parts of the country.

The group now lost large swath territories to Somali army.