Somalia’s government has denied reports that Turkish F-16 fighter jets or armed drones struck Somali National Army positions in Leego on Oct. 26, describing the claims as false and unfounded.
MOGADISHU (Somali Report) — Somalia’s federal government has denied reports that Turkish fighter jets or armed drones struck Somali National Army positions in the Leego area on Oct. 26 during an Al-Shabaab attack, calling the claims false and unfounded.
In a statement issued by the National Security Office, the government said no Turkish aircraft had mistakenly targeted Somali forces, rejecting reports that F-16 fighter jets or armed drones carried out attacks against army positions in the area.
“Reports claiming that Turkish F-16 fighter jets or armed drones carried out strikes on Somali National Army positions in Leego on Oct. 26, 2026, are fabricated and baseless,” the statement said.
The denial follows reports circulating about alleged airstrikes against Somali troops in the area, although the government did not provide further details about the origin of the claims or whether an independent investigation had been conducted.
The statement did not mention casualties or damage allegedly resulting from the reported strikes.
Somalia and Turkey maintain close security and military cooperation, with Ankara providing training, equipment and other support to Somali forces as the government seeks to strengthen its capacity to combat Al-Shabaab militants.
Turkey has played a significant role in Somalia’s security sector, including through military training and assistance aimed at improving the capabilities of the Somali National Army.
The Somali government described its relationship with Turkey as a strategic partnership focused on counterterrorism, strengthening security and maintaining peace.
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The statement underscored the importance of continued cooperation between the two countries, amid persistent security challenges facing Somalia as its forces continue operations against Al-Shabaab, an armed group linked to Al-Qaeda.
The government also urged media outlets and the public to rely on official sources for information and to avoid circulating unverified reports that could undermine public confidence in the country’s security institutions.
It said the spread of unsupported claims could damage trust between citizens and security forces at a time when the government is seeking to strengthen national security and stability.
The National Security Office reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the protection of civilians.
The statement did not provide additional information about security operations in Leego or independently verifiable evidence concerning the reported incident.
Somalia has relied on international partners, including Turkey and the African Union, for military support as it works to expand the role of its own forces in securing the country.
The latest denial highlights the sensitivity surrounding military operations and foreign security cooperation in Somalia, where conflicting reports about battlefield developments can circulate before they are independently verified.
About the Author
Ahmed Omar is a senior journalist for Somali Report, based in Mogadishu. He has two decades of experience reporting on Somalia for international and local media. He covers politics, security, governance, business, trade, economic developments and regional affairs.
