Somalia has honoured its soldiers for showing acts of bravery during one of the fiercest battles against Al-Shabab terrorists in recent months.
The awards included honours and special awards to soldiers who repulsed hundreds of Al-Shabab terrorists who last week mounted a large-scale assault in El-deer, in Galguduud region.
The fighting saw the soldiers destroy two car bombs before they could be detonated. Air and ground support, together with the mobilisation of local fighters, saw the army repel the assault.
At a ceremony in the frontline town, the Commander of the Army’s Infantry Division, Major General Sahal Abdullahi Omar, praised the “heroic sacrifice” of his forces.
Seven-hour battle
Prayers were also held for martyred troops killed in the seven-hour battle last Friday.
General Sahal stressed that the success in El-deer was achieved largely thanks to the backing of local residents.
“The victory against Al-Shabab came through the support of the local people,” he said, describing the partnership between civilians and soldiers as the key to defeating the terrorists.
Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi earlier confirmed that more than 60 Al-Shabab terrorists were killed and over 50 wounded in the battle.
Several terrorists, including senior field commanders, were captured alive, alongside caches of weapons and ammunition.
Prisoners, weapons, and ammunition were later paraded in El-deer.
Courage of residents
Galmudug State President Ahmed Abdi Kaariye also praised the national army and local fighters for what he called a “historic victory,” lauding the courage of residents who resisted the assault.
He said the losses inflicted on Al-Shabab underscored the determination of Somalis to rid themselves of the group’s terrorism.
The defence ministry hailed the army and community fighters for their sacrifice, vowing the campaign against Al-Shabab would continue until the group is eliminated.
Both national and local forces reaffirmed their commitment to defending Somalia’s people and restoring lasting peace and stability.
