70 Al-Shabaab militants killed in clashes in Somalia

According to information released by the Somali Ministry of Information on May 19, heavy clashes have occurred between the Somali army and Al-Shabaab militants in Hirshabelle state over the past 48 hours.

The official statement noted that a severe blow was struck against a terrorist group that was threatening the country's security and trying to spread to the region, resulting in the elimination of 70 militants.

The assistance provided by the local population during the operations was also particularly acknowledged, and it was reported that the group's advance was halted due to the cooperation of the army and the population.

Al-Shabab has carried out numerous attacks on positions in Hirshabelle's Hiran and Middle Shabelle regions. The group has also previously attempted to expand its influence by capturing the strategically important town of Aden Yabal in the region.