Mogadishu, 2 April 2026 – The African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) troops and the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF) have captured a senior Al-Shabaab commander during a coordinated joint operation in Lower Shabelle region.
The suspect, identified as Salaad Cusmaan Macalin, also known as “Sahm,” was apprehended on Thursday on the north-western outskirts of Mubarak.
Salaad, aged 40, serves as a battalion commander within Al-Shabaab. He is originally from Burhakaba, and a resident of Ugunji, he belongs to the Raxaweyn clan.
He joined Al-Shabaab in 2009 and is considered an influential operational leader involved in planning and executing militant activities, particularly in Mogadishu and surrounding areas.
Salaad was captured by SNAF Gorgor Unit 203 and AUSSOM Ugandan troops while scouting defensive positions in preparation for an attack.
He was accompanied by a group of fighters, including 17 foreign militants recently deployed from Al-Shabaab’s command centre of Jilib, Middle Juba region.
Initial interrogation findings indicate that one of his associates, identified as Ismaaciil, a Kenyan national, had volunteered for a suicide mission as part of the planned attack.
Another individual linked to the group, identified as Salman, evaded capture during the operation.
AUSSOM Sector One Commander, Brig. Gen. Jackson Kayanja commended the joint forces for the successful operation, praising their vigilance and professionalism.
He also urged local leaders and communities to actively support security forces in countering terrorist threats and strengthening stability across Somalia.