The Ugandan military has come out to refute claims that Al Shabaab militants in Somalia on Sunday killed 39 UPDF soldiers in an ambush on African Union troops in the country’s south.
Brig Richard Karemire , the UPDF spokesman said in a second statement on Monday that 12 soldiers were killed by the insurgents in yesterday’s ambush. They were part of a joint SNA/AMISOM UPDF patrol under 7th Battalion of Battle group twenty two
Brig. Karemire said; “Following the ambush on SNA/AMISOM troops by Alshabab terrorists at Goryowein along Bulu-maler and Beladamin, on Sunday 29 July 2017, the UPDF Contingent commander Brig Kayanja Muhanga, has since been on ground to conduct counter operations.”
“From the battlefield, it is now confirmed that UPDF lost 12 gallant soldiers with 07 sustaining injuries. The dead and those injured have been evacuated to Mogadishu Level II Hospital for further management and treatment.”
“The UPDF office of Chief of Personnel and Administration is contacting the next of kin of the deceased and injured to inform them of the developments while arrangements are being made to transport deceased comrades to their homes of origin for descent burial.”
“Meanwhile, a board of inquiry is being constituted to establish circumstances leading to this fateful incident. The same board of inquiry will help in expediting the compensation process by the African Union in respect of the deceased who gave their lives in defence of mother Africa.”
“Our deepest sympathy and condolences go to the families of our departed comrades and the struggle for peace and stability in Africa continues.”
The identities of the fallen soldiers are yet to be released.
