US Africa Command has claimed the responsibility for an attack that hit al-Shabaab stronghold town of Jilib on Tuesday.
According to AFRICOM press release, one militant was killed in the airstrike that was possibly conducted by drone technology.
“In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command conducted an airstrike targeting an al-Shabaab terrorist in the vicinity of Jilib, Somalia, on Nov. 12.”
“Currently, we assess no civilians were injured or killed as a result of this airstrike.”
Washington said the attack is part of its support to Somali armed forces operation against the armed group al-Shabaab.
“This strike is an example of the successful incursions our Somali partners are making into al-Shabaab territory,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. William Gayler, director of operations, U.S. Africa Command.”
He added, “Together, with the Federal Government of Somalia, we remain resolute to maintain pressure on al-Shabaab’s network and levels of leadership while countering violent extremist intentions and actions.”
U.S. Africa Command vowed to continue to jointly work with the Federal Government of Somalia and international peacekeepers for the fight against terrorism in the country.
“In support of the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. forces will use all effective and appropriate methods to assist in the protection of the Somali people, “including partnered military counterterrorism operations with the Federal Government of Somalia, AMISOM, and Somali National Army forces.”
