Lower Shabelle (KAAB TV) – A senior commander of the Al-Shabaab militant group has been killed by the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces, which operates under the African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), according to an official statement released by the Ugandan military.
The deceased, identified as Osman Hussein Buune, was reportedly the head of Al-Shabaab operations in the Lower Shabelle region. He was killed during a surprise military operation carried out by Ugandan troops near the town of Bulo Mareer on Sunday, September 14.
Brigadier General Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, Commander of UPDF’s First Sector, confirmed the successful operation in a brief statement. He noted that several items were recovered at the scene, including a pistol, a small bag, a drum, two mobile phones, and various other materials believed to be of intelligence value.
“This operation is a significant blow to the leadership of Al-Shabaab in the region,” said Brig. Gen. Ssemwanga. “It sends a clear message that AUSSOM, alongside the UPDF and our international allies, remains fully committed to dismantling terrorist networks and restoring long-term peace and stability to Somalia.”
This latest operation follows a similar military success last month when Ugandan forces, in coordination with the Somali National Army (SNA), launched a large-scale assault in Barire, also in Lower Shabelle. That offensive reportedly resulted in the deaths of over 50 Al-Shabaab fighters, including several high-ranking officers.
The UPDF, as part of AUSSOM’s ongoing stabilization mission, continues to work closely with Somali forces to weaken Al-Shabaab’s presence and influence across southern Somalia—a region that has long served as a strategic stronghold for the militant group.
Military analysts say these operations are critical in degrading Al-Shabaab’s operational capabilities and disrupting its leadership structure. Despite persistent security challenges, both Ugandan and Somali forces remain resolute in their efforts to secure liberated territories and protect civilian populations from insurgent violence.