The Ugandan Ministry of Defense announced its troops and Somali National Army forces jointly captured Bariire, a strategic town 50km southwest of Mogadishu.
Officials said the offensive was part of ongoing Lower Shabelle operations, targeting the removal of Al-Shabaab from Bariire, Sabiid, Anole, and Awdheegle.
Ugandan authorities confirmed over 50 Al-Shabaab fighters were killed in the Bariire battle, including three senior commanders known for military expertise.
The slain commanders were identified as Mohammed Abdallah, an anti-tank weapons specialist; Sadam Ibrahim, an IED expert; and Abas, the group’s infantry leader.
Fighting reportedly continues in Bariire, with Ugandan and Somali forces conducting clearing operations to secure the area and eliminate remaining Al-Shabaab militants.
Uganda rejected claims from pro–Al-Shabaab media alleging heavy allied casualties, labeling such reports “baseless propaganda” designed to mislead and undermine African Union peacekeeping efforts.
