UPDF Successfully Recaptures Buulo Mareer Base, Apprehends Commanders Responsible for Retreat
In a recent address to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Parliamentary Caucus, President Museveni of Uganda disclosed that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) had recovered the bodies of 54 Ugandan soldiers who lost their lives in an attack by Al-Shabaab on a Forward Operating Base in Lower Shabelle on May 26. The President further revealed that the UPDF had successfully recaptured the Buulo Mareer Base from the Al-Shabaab terrorists a few days ago.
The attack on the Buulo Mareer Forward Operating Base witnessed a force of over 800 Al-Shabaab fighters overpowering the UPDF and taking control of the base. However, the resilient Ugandan soldiers managed to regroup and eventually retake the base on Tuesday, as President Museveni shared during the ongoing NRM Parliamentary Caucus retreat at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi.
During the operation to recapture the base, the UPDF discovered the bodies of the fallen soldiers, including Commander Nyororo. Al-Shabaab, known for exaggerating its figures, claimed to have killed 137 Ugandan soldiers and seized vehicles, weapons, and ammunition from the base.
President Museveni’s acknowledgment of the death toll represents the first official statement regarding the casualties resulting from the Al-Shabaab attack. Previously, Ugandan officials, including the army spokesperson, had been hesitant to provide specific details on the matter. This incident is believed to have caused the highest number of UPDF casualties in a single battle in Somalia in recent years.
President Museveni attributed the attack to internal weaknesses within the UPDF and specifically mentioned two commanders, Maj. Oluka and Maj. Obbo, who had ordered the soldiers to retreat. He confirmed that the commanders have been apprehended and will face charges in the Court Martial.
The President’s revelation sheds light on the sacrifices made by Ugandan soldiers in their mission to combat terrorism in Somalia. The recovery of the fallen soldiers’ bodies allows for proper recognition of their service and paves the way for honoring their memory. The recapture of the Buulo Mareer Base also signifies a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to counter the activities of Al-Shabaab in the region.
As Uganda mourns the loss of its brave soldiers, the nation stands united in solidarity with the UPDF and reaffirms its commitment to eradicating terrorism and restoring peace in Somalia.
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