A joint tactical military operation by the Somali National Army (SNA) backed by the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and in the Lower Shabelle region which reportedly targeted members of the Al-Shabaab terror group is said to have gained momentum and gained control of Basra town.
Basra town was previously under the control of Al-Shabaab terror group and was a staging ground for attacks on AMISOM, the Somali national army and innocent civilians.
The Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia (DRC), Simon Mulongo, said the joint operation was carried out by the SNA Eagle Brigade, supported by AMISOM troops from Uganda and Burundi.
“AMISOM is ready to continue to work with the SNA to reduce the threat of Al-Shabaab terror militant and to take control of more areas to protect the people and extend governance,” said the Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia (DRC).
“Throughout Somalia, Al-Shabaab militants has lost control of large swathes of territory as a result of bravery, self-sacrifice and joint operations between SNA and AMISOM forces. From our operational perspective, we will continue to bring down Al-Shabaab and set foot on every land they control,” He added.
AMISOM Force Commander 5 Brig, Télesphore Barandereka said the tangible results achieved by the troops are a result of the joint planning and implementation of the SNA as well as the support of the public.
The week-long operation began with AMISOM and SNA forces pursuing and flushing the Al-Shabaab members from different strategic bases.
The joint forces then confronted Al-Shabaab units in Bandar Salaam, about 1.5km south of Basra and Bulo Barwaqo, about 7.5km northeast of Basra. Al-Shabaab terror militants have been actively operating in Basra, between Afgoye and Balad districts and have been carrying out attacks from time to time.
