The leadership of Somalia-based Al-Shabaab has differed over funds. Differences between the militia’s top leadership threaten the existence of the group.
In late February, Ahmed Diriye, who is also known as Abu Ubeyda, tried expelling Mahad Karate, the group’s head of finance and chief spy.
Diriye’s differences with other leaders also saw him attempt to expel Bashir Qorgab, who is Al-Shabaab’s head of external operations.
The three leaders have waged war between themselves as each person tries to be in control over the extremist group’s finances.
A few weeks ago, a US drone attack killed Qorgab and his wife.
His death has worsened the infighting within the leadership as well as rank and file of Al-Shabaab.
According to Ubeyda, Karate is guilty of hoarding all funds collected from taxes levied against farmers, businessmen, and herders in Mogadishu and other areas Al-Shabaab controls.