The Uganda People’s Defence Forces, operating under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia, in collaboration with the Somali National Army, have captured a senior Al-Shabaab commander alive during a coordinated military operation in the Mubaraka area.
The suspect, identified as Salaad Cusmaan Macalin, also known as “Sahm,” was apprehended on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, in the north-western outskirts of Mubaraka by AUSSOM troops alongside the SNA’s elite Gorgor Unit 203.
According to military sources, Macalin, 40, is a battalion commander within Al-Shabaab ranks and was actively involved in planning attacks against Somali government forces. At the time of his capture, he was reportedly conducting reconnaissance on SNA defensive positions in preparation for an imminent assault on Mubaraka.
He is also believed to have been operating with a group of fighters that included approximately 17 foreign militants who had recently relocated from Jilib to Ugunji, raising concerns about the movement and regrouping of extremist elements in the region.
Sector One Commander, Jackson Kayanja, praised the joint forces for the successful operation, describing it as a significant milestone in efforts to weaken Al-Shabaab’s operational capacity.
“This operation demonstrates the strength of coordination between allied forces and marks a major step forward in restoring stability in the region,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Kayanja also called on local leaders and communities to continue supporting security operations by sharing timely information that can help prevent future attacks.
The UPDF contingent under AUSSOM, working closely with the Somali National Army, has reaffirmed its commitment to neutralizing terrorist threats and supporting long-term peace and security efforts across Somalia.
The capture of the senior commander is expected to deal a significant blow to Al-Shabaab’s activities in the area, as joint forces intensify operations against the militant group.
