UPDF Probe Al-Shabaab Attack on Somalia Base

Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) are investigating an attack on its troops serving under the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in Somalia.

“There was an early morning attack on our troops in Buulo-Mareer-Somalia by elements of Al Shabaab,” said Defence Spokesperson, Brig Gen Felix Kulayigye on Friday.

He added: “We are cross-checking with African Union Transition Mission in Somalia headquarters for more details.”

ATMIS later issued a statement saying the incident happened at around 5 am today when the ATMIS Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Buulo Mareer, approximately 120 km southwest of Mogadishu in the Lower Shabelle region was attacked by Al-Shabaab militants using Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs) and suicide bombers.

According to the statement, fighting between the terrorists and ATMIS soldiers ensued.

Reinforcements from ATMIS’ Aviation Unit and allies managed to destroy weapons in possession of the withdrawing Al-Shabaab militants.

“ATMIS would like to assure the public and all other entities in the country that everything is being done to bring the situation under control,” the mission stated.

It added: “The mission remains committed in its fight against terrorism and will continue working closely with the Federal Government of Somalia, the Federal Member States and other international partners in securing Somalia against Al-Shabaab and other armed groups.”