The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), operating under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), together with the Somali National Army (SNA), have captured a senior Al-Shabaab commander alive during a coordinated operation in the Mubaraka area, delivering a major blow to the terror group’s operations in Somalia.
The suspect, Salaad Cusmaan Macalin, also known as ‘Sahm,’ a battalion commander within the terrorist group, was apprehended on the north-western outskirts of Mubaraka by AUSSOM troops in coordination with the SNA Gorgor Unit 203.
According to a UPDF statement released on March 3rd, 2026, Macalin was captured while reportedly conducting reconnaissance on SNA defensive positions in preparation for a planned attack on Mubaraka.
The statement further revealed he was reportedly operating with a group of fighters, including approximately 17 foreign militants who had recently relocated from Jilib to Ugunji.
Brigadier General Jackson Kayanja, Sector One Commander, hailed the operation as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to degrade Al-Shabaab’s capabilities in the region.
He praised the professionalism and coordination of UPDF and SNA troops, emphasizing the significance of capturing a high-ranking militant alive.
“The success of this operation demonstrates the effectiveness of our joint efforts with Somali security forces to neutralize terrorist threats and restore lasting peace and security,” Brig. Gen. Kayanja said.
He also urged local leaders and community members to continue cooperating with security forces to enhance stability and safeguard the region.
“Your support and vigilance make a real difference. By working hand in hand with our forces, we can protect our communities and defeat those who threaten our safety,” the Brigadier General emphasized.
The revelation that Macalin was operating alongside approximately 17 foreign militants recently relocated from Jilib to Ugunji highlights a worrying trend of transnational jihadist collaboration within Somalia.
However, it also demonstrates that joint AUSSOM-SNA intelligence and coordination are effectively disrupting these networks before they can strike.
As the UPDF continues its mission under AUSSOM, this operation sends a clear message: Al-Shabaab’s leadership is vulnerable, its reconnaissance can be countered, and its fighters whether local or foreign will be hunted.
With continued cooperation from local communities and the vigilance of Somali security forces, the momentum toward lasting peace and stability in Somalia is steadily growing because the capture of ‘Sahm’ is not an endpoint, but a decisive step forward in dismantling one of Africa’s most persistent terrorist threats.
