The Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF), operating under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), and the Somali National Army (SNA) have captured a senior Al-Shabaab commander alive in a coordinated operation near Mubaraka.
The suspect, Salaad Cusmaan Macalin — alias “Sahm” — was apprehended on Wednesday in the north-western outskirts of Mubaraka by AUSSOM troops and the SNA Gorgor Unit 203. Macalin, 40, serves as a battalion commander in Al-Shabaab.
At the time of capture, he was allegedly conducting reconnaissance on SNA defensive positions ahead of a planned attack on Mubaraka, operating with a group that included about 17 foreign militants recently moved from Jilib to Ugunji.
Sector One Commander Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja commended the troops for the successful operation, calling it a significant breakthrough in efforts to degrade Al-Shabaab’s capabilities.
He urged local leaders and community members to keep cooperating with security forces to strengthen stability and security.
UPDF troops under AUSSOM, working with the Somali National Army, continue efforts to neutralize terrorist threats and support lasting peace and security in Somalia.
