Monday 4, August 2025 {HMC} The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), in collaboration with the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), have killed over 50 Al-Shabaab militants, including senior commanders, during a military operation in the Lower Shabelle region.
The offensive began on the morning of Friday, 1 August 2025, targeting Bariire — a key town located approximately 50 kilometres southwest of the Somali capital, Mogadishu.
According to a statement from AUSSOM, the senior Al-Shabaab commanders killed in the operation were Mohammed Abdallah, an anti-tank specialist; Sadam Ibrahim, an improvised explosive device (IED) expert; and Abas, an infantry commander.
AUSSOM also refuted media reports alleging heavy casualties among its soldiers during the Bariire operation.
The offensive remains ongoing, with UPDF and SNAF troops continuing efforts to eliminate remaining fighters and secure full control of the area.
“The joint military operation has resulted in substantial losses for the terrorist group, with over 50 Al-Shabaab militants killed and many others sustaining serious injuries,” AUSSOM stated.
This operation marks the second phase of *Operation Silent Storm*, a broader military campaign aimed at liberating the towns of Sabiid, Anole, Bariire, and Awdheegle. Joint forces have already recaptured Sabiid and Anole.
Al-Shabaab has sustained significant losses in the Lower Shabelle region in recent weeks, with nearly 100 militants killed in separate operations over the past month.
Source Hiiraan onnline
