Somali government forces have successfully eliminated three prominent terrorist commanders during intensified military operations in the southern regions of the country. The targeted strikes took place in the Lower Shabelle and Middle Juba governorates, according to a statement released by the Somali National News Agency (SONNA) on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The neutralized individuals were identified as key figures within the terrorist financial network. Authorities confirmed that these leaders were primarily responsible for the "forced collection" of funds and the systemic looting of property from local citizens and public institutions. These illicit activities were used to bankroll broader terrorist operations and insurgent attacks across Somalia.
Dismantling Financial Infrastructure
The Somali government characterized the mission as a significant blow to the administrative and financial capabilities of the extremist groups. "These operations are part of our broader mandate to purge our provinces of those who extort our people and finance destruction," the Ministry of Defense stated.
In the wake of the successful mission, the Somali government called on the public to increase their cooperation with security agencies. Officials emphasized that community-led intelligence is vital for locating high-value targets and ensuring the permanent restoration of peace and stability in rural districts.
Wider Counter-Terrorism Push
This latest success follows a string of air and ground strikes earlier this month, including a February 15 operation in Middle Shabelle that left 15 militants dead. The Somali National Army (SNA), supported by international partners, continues to maintain a high tempo of operations to disrupt militant strongholds as part of a nationwide counter-terrorism offensive.
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