To support the Federal Government of Somalia’s efforts to degrade al-Shabaab, U.S. forces conducted an airstrike targeting al-Shabaab militants in the vicinity of Quy Cad near Debatscile, Somalia, on Nov. 27, 2018. This follows successful strikes in the area on Nov. 19 and 20.
U.S. Africa Command currently assess this airstrike killed three (3) militants.
U.S. Africa Command currently assess this airstrike did not injure or kill any civilians.
“We continue to work with Somali, AMISOM and other international partners to grow and develop Somali security forces. As part of that effort, we conduct precision strikes to foil terrorist plans, kill al-Shabaab terrorists and reduce the enemy’s freedom of maneuver. Strikes keep pressure on the al-Shabaab network and help provide Somali forces time and space to develop their independent capability to protect the people of Somalia. In contrast to al-Shabaab’s indiscriminate attacks on Somali civilians, AFRICOM goes to great lengths to protect the innocent when striking terrorist targets,” said Maj. Gen. Gregg P. Olson, director of operations, U.S. Africa Command.
U.S. forces will use all effective and appropriate methods to protect the Somali people, including partnered military counter-terror operations with Federal Government of Somalia, Africa Union Mission in Somalia and Somali National Army forces.