African Union forces from Uganda reportedly suffered heavy casualties in a week-long battle to seize Barire, a town in Lower Shabelle region, about 64km west of Mogadishu.
At least 17 Ugandan soldiers were said to be killed, including six who died after a deadly suicide car bomb earlier last week, according to security sources.
Uganda’s military, however, has denied suffering any casualties, insisting its forces successfully achieved their mission without loss of personnel.
The Somali military said over 100 al-Shabaab fighters were killed and four captured after retaking Sahid and Anole villages.
Backed by AU forces, the Somali army is preparing to seize Awdhegle, a strategic town under al-Shabaab control.
Military sources warn of fierce fighting ahead, citing the militants’ strong fortifications and deep knowledge of the terrain.
Recapturing Awdhegle would secure all five strategic bridges in the area, forcing al-Shabaab north of the Shabelle River, officials confirmed.
