Mogadishu (SD) – A planned military operations in Barire killed the head of Al-Shabaab attack, according to Army Radio.

The operation also killed 17 al-Shabaab members, leveling and destroyed bases for the group’s fighters.

Commander of the 143rd Somali National Army, General Ahmed Hassan Siyad speaking to the Armed Forces Radio, confirmed that Abu Nur Mukhtar, the leader of Al-Shabaab heavy weaponry, was killed in today’s operation.

Abu Nur Mukhtar, better known as Gaabshe, was in charge of al-Shabaab mortars brigade, according to the commander.

Commander Ahmed declined to give further details about today’s operations in Barire, Lower Shabelle region.

The operation comes at a time when Al-Shabaab militants have recently attacked government bases in the area.

Al-Shabaab has recently carried out planned attacks in the Lower Shabelle regions, increasing government troops operations targeting their militias.