Somali, Ugandan and African Union (AU) forces on Thursday killed more than 30 Al Shabab terrorists and injured several others during a joint operation in southern Somalia, the AU peacekeeping mission said.

The operation was carried out near the Bulunagaad forward operating base to target Al Shabab positions and weaken the group’s operational capabilities in Lower Shabelle region, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) said in a statement.

This came after terrorists attacked the Somali army and AUSSOM forces pursuing Al Shabab terrorists, who had been driven out of towns along the coast during the Somali army-led Operation Hidden Sword.

The peacekeeping mission vowed that joint forces would continue efforts to weaken Al Shabab’s capabilities and advance lasting peace, stability, and security across the Horn of Africa.

Concerted efforts to defeat Al Shabab

The terrorist group, which largely operates in southern and central Somalia, has waged terrorism against the Somali government for more than 16 years, frequently targeting security forces, officials, and civilians.

Since July 2025, the Somali army, with the support of the AUSSOM and other international partners, has stepped up operations against Al Shabab.

The AU mission's mandate was renewed by the UN Security Council in December for another year, extending its authorisation until December 31, 2026.