MOGADISHU (Halbeeg News) – African Union has commended Somali National Army (SNA) for their commitment to defeat al-Shabaab barely two days after SNA recaptured Barire town.
In a statement on Friday, African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) said AMISOM troops in a joint military operation with SNA launched offensive and liberated the strategic town of Bariire from al-Shabaab.
“I congratulate AMISOM and the Somali Security Forces for the bravery and professionalism with which they have discharged their duties in Sabiid and Bariire and their visible efforts to protect and safeguard civilians and their properties,” said Francisco Madeira, head of AMISOM.
The agricultural-rich Bariire, which lies about 63 kilometers west of Somali capital, Mogadishu, is one of the strategic areas located in Lower Shabelle region along River Shabelle.
The town was serving as a critical transit point for al-Shabaab extremists who frequently crossed over from Bay and Middle Jubba into Lower Shabelle to terrorize communities.
Madeira has termed the victory another significant milestone for the Somali Army and AMISOM.
“The liberation of Bariire from the grip of the terrorists is another major milestone for the Somali National Army and AMISOM in our joint efforts to free the people of Somalia from the control of Al-Shabaab and restore lasting peace, stability and security in the country,” said Madeira.
The liberation of Bariire comes precisely a month after AMISOM troops, in another joint operation with the Somali National Army, captured the towns of Sabiid and located in Lower Shabelle region.
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