MOGADISHU, Somalia — July 24, 2026 — Al-Shabaab militants carried out separate overnight attacks targeting a Somali government forces base near Sabiid Bridge in Lower Shabelle and a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) camp in Sheikh Barow, Mandera County, near the Somalia-Kenya border, according to local sources. Security officials have not yet provided full details on casualties or damage.

Al-Shabaab militants launched a heavy night assault on a Somali government forces position at Sabiid Bridge area, located in Afgooye district of Lower Shabelle region, according to local residents and security sources.

The attack reportedly began overnight, with militants engaging government forces in intense fighting using different types of weapons, including small arms and heavy weapons. Witnesses said heavy gunfire was heard around the military base during the confrontation.

The duration of the fighting and the number of casualties among the opposing sides remained unclear. Somali security authorities had not immediately released an official statement regarding the attack.

The Sabiid Bridge area is considered strategically important due to its location near major routes connecting parts of Lower Shabelle with Mogadishu. The area has previously witnessed repeated clashes between Somali forces and Al-Shabaab fighters.

In a separate incident, Al-Shabaab militants also attacked a Kenya Defence Forces camp in the Sheikh Barow area of Lafey Sub-County, Mandera County, near the Somalia-Kenya border, according to local reports.

The assault reportedly involved prolonged exchanges of gunfire between militants and Kenyan forces. Sources said various weapons were used during the attack, although the full extent of casualties and damage remained unconfirmed.

Kenyan authorities had not immediately provided details about the Sheikh Barow attack as security forces continued assessing the situation.

Casualties and Humanitarian Impact

No official casualty figures have been released from either attack.

Local sources reported intense fighting in both locations, raising concerns among communities living near military positions and border areas. Residents in conflict-affected areas often face disruptions due to security operations, movement restrictions, and increased risks during periods of fighting.

Humanitarian organizations operating in Somalia and border regions have repeatedly warned that continued armed clashes can increase pressure on civilians, particularly in areas already affected by displacement and insecurity.

Government Response

Somali authorities have not yet issued a detailed statement regarding the Sabiid Bridge attack. Security forces are expected to provide further information after assessing the situation on the ground.

In Kenya, security agencies have maintained heightened operations in northeastern counties following repeated attacks linked to Al-Shabaab. Officials have previously said counterterrorism measures remain active along the Somalia-Kenya border.

Kenya continues to participate in regional security operations against Al-Shabaab through its military presence in Somalia as part of international efforts to combat the militant group.

Lower Shabelle remains one of the main areas affected by Somalia’s long-running conflict with Al-Shabaab. The region’s proximity to Mogadishu and its important road networks have made it a frequent area of military operations between government forces and the militant group.

Al-Shabaab has carried out numerous attacks in Lower Shabelle, including assaults on military bases, roadside bombings, and ambushes targeting Somali security forces. The group has also previously attacked positions around Afgooye, Marka, and other areas in the region.

The militant group has also maintained the ability to conduct cross-border operations into Kenya. In northeastern Kenya, Al-Shabaab has repeatedly targeted security forces, government facilities, transport routes, and communication infrastructure.

Previous attacks in Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa counties have included armed raids, improvised explosive device attacks, and ambushes targeting Kenyan security personnel and civilians.

Kenya has strengthened security measures along its border with Somalia, while Somali forces and regional partners continue operations aimed at reducing Al-Shabaab’s military capabilities.

The simultaneous attacks highlight the continued operational capability of Al-Shabaab despite ongoing military campaigns against the group in Somalia. The attacks demonstrate that militants remain able to target security positions in both central conflict zones and border areas.

The Sabiid Bridge attack is significant because Lower Shabelle remains a critical security area near Mogadishu. Continued attacks in the region could challenge government efforts to expand control and maintain security around the capital’s outskirts.

The attack in Mandera also reflects the broader regional security challenge posed by Al-Shabaab. Cross-border attacks continue to create security concerns for Kenya and require continued cooperation between Somalia and neighboring countries.