The UPDF (Ugandan People’s Defence Forces) has been in Somalia since 2007, as part of the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM). Among the various measures taken by the UPDF to counter terrorist activities in Somalia is the establishment of the ATMIS (African Union Transition Mission in Somalia) base in Bulo Marer.
Atmis, in a tweet, confirmed the attack, saying it was assessing the situation on the ground. “This morning, #ATMIS FOB (Forward Operating Base) in Bulo Marer came under Al-Shabab attack.2 hours ago
The investigation is still ongoing, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. However, some observers suspect Al-Shabaab, a Somali-based terrorist group that has carried out several attacks in the country, including on AMISOM forces.
The attack on the ATMIS base has significant implications for UPDF operations in Somalia. The base is essential to the UPDF’s intelligence gathering and monitoring of terrorist activities in the region. The attack has also raised security concerns for the ATMIS base and the surrounding area, as it highlights the security challenges faced by AMISOM forces in Somalia.
Furthermore, the attack may have political implications. Uganda has been a key player in the fight against Al-Shabaab in Somalia, with the UPDF contributing the largest contingent to the AMISOM force. The attack on the ATMIS base could strain the relationship between the UPDF and the Somali government, particularly if the investigation reveals involvement or negligence by the Somali government.
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