Friday June 2, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - Somali government forces, in collaboration with African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops, took steps to dismantle Al-Shabab strongholds and military posts in the Middle Shabelle region on Thursday.
These operations featured Burundian troops serving under the AU mission and the Somali security forces, focusing on the essential 10km stretch between Bal'ad and Gololey.
"This road is frequently exploited by Al-Shabaab for extortion. Our joint force dismantled illicit checkpoints established by the militants. We also eradicated Al-Shabaab cells planning to launch attacks on government forces, ATMIS personnel, and civilians in the region," read a statement from the African Union ATMIS mission.
At the same time, Ugandan troops, also part of the AU mission, patrolled to secure the Main Supply Route in Buulo Mareer. This measure was aimed at guaranteeing the unhindered movement of goods and services. The action is a component of the continuing military campaign against Al-Shabaab in the Lower Shabelle region.
These recent security maneuvers were launched in retaliation to a deadly al Shabab assault on a military base staffed by Ugandan forces, who play a pivotal role in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
Both the AU and Uganda are currently assessing the casualty count from this attack, as the militants remain active in the vicinity of the base located in the town of Bulo Marer, 110 km south of Mogadishu. The Ugandan military has confirmed a company of 221 soldiers were stationed at the base when the attack occurred.
This assault comes at a time when military campaigns against al-Shabab seem to have slowed down in central regions.