Somalia, AU troops intensify operation ‘Silent Storm’ against Al-Shabaab in Lower Shabelle

Somalia's Ministry of Defence on Saturday announced a continued onslaught against the Al-Shabaab militia from their hideouts in the Lower Shabelle region as part of the ongoing Operation "Silent Storm."

The operation that is in its third phase seeks to dismantle Al-Shabaab's strongholds, secure vital corridors, and protect civilians in efforts to liberate Somalia from terrorism into lasting stability.

"The Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), in coordination with the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) under the AUSSOM mission, this morning entered Awdheegle town in the Lower Shabelle region as part of the ongoing Operation Silent Storm aimed at liberating areas where Al-Shabaab militants continue to hide. The Operation is still underway, and the Ministry of Defence will share official details once it has been fully concluded," the Ministry said in a statement on Saturday.

The operation was launched in June this year to recapture previously lost Forward Operating Bases of Sabiid Anole, Aw Degeele, and Bariire. It recorded success in the capture of scores of fighters and their weapons in the area of Sabiid Anole.

On Thursday this week, a statement from AUSSOM confirmed that the mission's troops and SNAF troops have successfully recaptured Bariire town, located southwest of  Mogadishu.

"The joint operation involved a significant ground offensive against Al-Shabaab militants and their affiliates over several days. The joint forces targeted Al-Shabaab hideouts, inflicting heavy casualties on the terrorist group," the mission said.

During the week-long operation, more than 100 militants were neutralised, with many others sustaining serious injuries.

"Today marks a major turning point in our mission to support SNAF in securing the Lower Shabelle region, which had been destabilised by Al-Shabaab militants and other illegal armed groups. We shall not waver in our determination to restore lasting peace and security across Somalia," Ambassador El Hadji Ibrahima Diene, the African Union Special Representative and Head of AUSSOM, said.

On his part, AUSSOM Force Commander Lt. Gen. Sam Kavuma congratulated the joint forces for a successful offensive, terming it a game-changer.

"I commend the brave efforts of our gallant AUSSOM UPDF troops and the SNAF to degrade Al-Shabaab. AUSSOM is fully committed to implementing the Somali Transition Plan, culminating in the transfer of security responsibilities to the Somali security forces," he said.

AUSSOM Uganda contingent Commander, Brigadier General Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, acknowledged the bravery of the troops, describing the liberation of Bariire as a major milestone in Somalia's journey towards lasting peace and security.

"The capture of Bariire is another huge blow to Al-Shabaab and a major achievement for AUSSOM UPDF troops, SNAF, the Somali Government and residents," said Brig. Gen. Ssemwanga.

The operation also recovered a cache of weapons previously used by the militants to attack innocent civilians and destroy key installations in Lower Shabelle.

"The fall of Bariire town follows the successful recapture of Sabiid and Anole towns in June, also in Lower Shabelle. Before its recapture, Al-Shabaab had used the strategic town as a launchpad for terrorist attacks in the region and the capital, Mogadishu," said AUSSOM.

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• AU troops intensify operation ‘Silent Storm’ against Al-Shabaab in Lower Shabelle