The UPDF, operating under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), together with the Somali National Army (SNA), have announced the capture of UPDF, a senior Al-Shabaab commander alive during a coordinated operation in the general area of Mubaraka.
The suspect, identified as Salaad Cusmaan Macalin, alias “Sahm,” was apprehended on Wednesday in the north-western outskirts of Mubaraka by AUSSOM troops and the SNA Gorgor Unit 203.
Macalin, 40, is a battalion commander within the Al-Shabaab ranks.
At the time of his capture, Macalin was reportedly conducting reconnaissance on SNA defensive positions in preparation for an imminent attack on Mubaraka. He was allegedly operating alongside a group of fighters, including about 17 foreign militants who had recently moved from Jilib to Ugunji.
The Sector One Commander, Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja, commended the troops for the successful operation, describing it as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to degrade Al-Shabaab capabilities in the area.
He urged local leaders and members of the community to continue cooperating with security forces in order to strengthen stability and enhance security.
The UPDF troops under AUSSOM, in partnership with the Somali National Army, to neutralise terrorist threats and support ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and security in Somalia.