Troops of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), alongside the Somali National Army (SNA), have conducted a joint security patrol in the Barawe Sub-Sector.
The operation aimed to strengthen peace and stability in the coastal town and surrounding areas.
The joint patrol, conducted on Saturday, was commanded by Battle Group 45 Commander Col Justus Musenene and his SNA counterpart, 66 Brigade Commander Col Abdurahman Elmi.
Col Musenene said the patrol sought to strengthen security, reassure local communities and deny space to Al-Shabaab militants operating in the area.
“Today’s patrol shows teamwork, comradeship and what we can achieve when we work together,” Col Musenene said.
He said AUSSOM forces remain committed to mentoring their SNA counterparts, strengthening local security structures and building trust with civilians.
The Battle Group Commander also warned Al-Shabaab fighters to abandon violence and surrender to government forces and AUSSOM troops.
“We know where you are, and we’re coming for you. The better option is to surrender if you want to be safe,” Col Musenene said.
Col Elmi echoed the message and urged Barawe residents to support security efforts by sharing information with the authorities.
“This joint patrol with our UPDF comrades proves that together we are stronger. To the people of Barawe, your safety comes first. To the enemy, know that SNA and AUSSOM are united, and we will not allow the enemy to disturb the prevailing peace in the region,” he said.
Residents who interacted with the patrol team welcomed the joint security presence. They pledged to continue sharing information with security forces to support peace and security.
Commanders from both forces said they would continue conducting similar operations in the Barawe Sub-Sector. The patrols aim to maintain pressure on security threats and create a conducive environment for peace and development.
The operation was attended by 145 Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer Lt Col Geoffrey Ochan, Embresko Forward Operating Base Commander Maj Francis Odede and Battle Group 45 Military Information Officer Maj David Akandwanaho. Other UPDF and SNA officers and troops also took part.
