MOGADISHU, July 26 (Xinhua) -- Somalia's National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), supported by international partners, has killed 16 al-Shabaab militants, including two key operatives, in central Somalia.

According to NISA, Saturday evening's joint operations targeted the Miirtaqwo and Tardo areas in the Middle Shabelle and Hiran regions, destroying key enemy vehicles and equipment.

It said the first operation targeted and destroyed an al-Shabaab facility known as the "Security House," where equipment for Radio Andalus was stored.

Abdisamad Mohamed, head of the Radio Andalus propaganda unit, and operative Ali Salad were killed in the operation, while another member was seriously injured.

Equipment belonging to Radio Andalus, the station used by the group to broadcast extremist propaganda, was also destroyed during the operation.

"These operations are part of ongoing efforts to dismantle al-Shabaab and destroy the facilities and equipment used to carry out terrorist acts," NISA said.

According to NISA, subsequent operations in the Tardo area of Hiran targeted al-Shabaab militants mobilizing for attacks in Goobo and Waabweyn.

Security experts said the latest operations reflect intensified security efforts aimed at dismantling al-Shabaab networks and restoring safety for civilians in one of the country's most volatile regions. ■