Al-Shabaab Assault on Halane Base in Mogadishu Claims Lives of AU Troops in Somalia

Somalia: Devastating Al-Shabaab Assault Claims Lives of AU Troops at Mogadishu’s Halane Base

MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a ruthless act of violence, Al-Shabaab insurgents launched a mortar attack on Sunday, tragically ending the lives of two soldiers from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), according to law enforcement authorities. This incident unfolded ominously close to the Aden Adde International Airport, a locale reinforced against such threats.

Mohamed El-Amine Souef, representing the African Union Commission in Somalia, denounced the brutal assault on Halane Base Camp—a sanctuary for numerous dignitaries in this East African nation.

Authorities, investigating the incident, revealed the usage of a 107mm rocket in the attack, with at least four mortar shells landing during the assault.

“This atrocious attack won’t intimidate us or hinder Somali security from pursuing dreams of tranquility,” Souef declared passionately in a message shared on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Our resolution to eradicate terrorism and nurture a peaceful, thriving Somalia persists resolutely.”

Absent from his message, however, were details about the nationalities of the fallen soldiers. ATMIS integrates personnel from Kenya, Uganda, Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Burundi, each tasked with securing distinct areas within Somalia.

In a heartfelt note of compassion, Souef extended condolences to the bereaved families and wished a swift healing to those injured amid the chaos.

Later on, visits from AU’s senior leadership to the emblematic site disclosed that the deceased were part of Uganda’s People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Al-Shabab swiftly claimed accountability for the offensive.

Propelled predominantly by its propaganda machine, the group asserts it eliminated both Caucasian and African officers, albeit often exaggerating numbers to propagate fear among peacekeeping forces.

Even after being ousted from Mogadishu back in 2011, Al-Shabaab sporadically orchestrates mortar attacks striking near strategic points, such as the AU’s base and various international embassies.

The mission of ATMIS is currently slated to wrap up by January 2025; nevertheless, a transition plan for the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) is in discussion, aiming to assume the mantle in early 2025.

AXADLETM

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