AMISOM hails the contribution of fallen Ugandan soldiers

The Uganda Peoples Defense Forces (UPDF) yesterday hailed the anti terror contribution made by its peacekeepers that perished on December 25, 2014 as they bravely and successfully thwarted an attack by Al-shabab on an African Union base in Mogadishu.

The AMISOM Halane base camp, close to Mogadishu International Airport was infiltrated by Al Shabaab elements.

The members, some of whom were disguised in Somali National Army (SNA) uniforms, breached the base camp around lunch hour and attempted to gain access to critical infrastructure, during which five of them were killed and three others captured.

During the gun fight, three AMISOM soldiers and a civilian contractor unfortunately lost their lives.

AMISOM has regained control of the Halane base camp and restored normalcy. All African Union (AU) and United Nations (UN) personnel in the base camp are safe and secure.

The Commander Land Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces, Maj Gen David Muhoozi who represented the Chief of Defense Forces, Gen Edward Katumba Wamala, in receiving the remains of the fallen comrades at Entebbe Airport said:

“Our gallant fighters that now regrettably lie before us in silence were part of a very strong team that heroically denied the Al -Shabab access to their intended final target of gaining access to critical Infrastructures at the base. All the five terrorists were eliminated on the spot as three were captured alive.”

It’s however unfortunate that some of the Ugandan comrades including a Lt Col. lost their lives in the process.

“They (AMISOM troops) fell as they fearlessly made a huge contribution towards the world’s cause of liberating humanity from terrorism. Uganda, Africa and the world will remember their enormous sacrifices.” Maj Gen Muhoozi added.

Maj Gen Muhoozi noted that there is no greater sacrifice than that of one’s own life for a just cause, like the fallen AMISOM comrades made.

“UPDF appreciatively receives the Condolence message from the Special Representative of the AU Commission Chairperson (SRCC) for Somalia and head of AMISOM, Maman S. Sidikou who also applauded the quick response and bravery of the Ugandan AMISOM troops in quelling the attack.” Gen Muhoozi added.

The UPDF sends its condolences to the bereaved families, AMISOM fraternity and to all Ugandans upon the loss of these dear Heroes.

Uganda will continue to stand with Africa and the rest of the world in the fight against terrorism and the collective efforts to rid Somalia and the entire region of Al- shabab will not be cowed by such incidences.

Source:The New Vision