Somali and allied forces have killed more than 30 Al-Shabaab militants in a joint operation near the Bulunagaad Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region, according to a statement released by the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
AUSSOM said the operation was conducted jointly by the Somali National Army (SNA), AUSSOM troops, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and international partners, with support from air assets.
The offensive involved multiple engagements with Al-Shabaab fighters, resulting in significant losses for the militant group.
“Through coordinated ground and air offensives, over 30 Al-Shabaab militants were put out of action, while several others sustained injuries,” the statement said.
The mission said the joint action followed an earlier attack by Al-Shabaab militants on SNA and AUSSOM forces who were conducting pursuit operations against fleeing fighters.
These militants had been dislodged from the coastal towns of Gendershe and areas along the Jilib–Marka axis during SNA-led operations codenamed Operation Hidden Sword.
According to AUSSOM, troops were tracking remnants of the group when they came under attack near the Bulunagaad FOB, prompting a swift and coordinated response.
“The SNA, AUSSOM, and partners acted swiftly and decisively to neutralize terrorist threats targeting security forces and civilians in the area,” the statement noted.
Lower Shabelle remains a key focus of counter-terrorism operations due to its strategic importance and persistent militant activity.
Security officials say recent offensives are aimed at dismantling Al-Shabaab’s operational networks, cutting off supply routes and denying the group freedom of movement.
Beyond combat operations, AUSSOM emphasized that civilian protection remains a central priority. “The SNA and AUSSOM, working closely with partners, remain committed to protecting civilian lives, maintaining security, and ensuring the safe movement of humanitarian assistance and logistics supplies to local communities,” the mission said.
The statement added that stabilizing the area is essential to enabling humanitarian access and supporting recovery efforts in communities affected by prolonged insecurity.
AUSSOM said joint forces will continue coordinated operations across the region as part of broader efforts to weaken Al-Shabaab and consolidate security gains.
“Joint forces will continue operations to degrade Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities and to promote lasting peace, stability, and security in Somalia,” the statement said.
The latest operation underscores sustained cooperation between Somali forces, African Union troops and international partners in efforts to counter extremist threats and support long-term stability in Somalia.
