LOWER SHABELLE — Somali police anti-terrorism forces eliminated a militant leader and wounded two others during an intelligence-led operation in the Jambaluul area of Lower Shabelle Region, where they also dismantled an illegal checkpoint used to extort money from civilians.
The operation, codenamed Waabari, was executed on April 18, 2026, by the Anti-Terrorism Command of the Somali Police Force, with assistance from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), authorities confirmed.
Militant ‘Taxman’ Killed in Raid
Officials reported that the deceased commander, identified as Zakariye, was responsible for issuing receipts for collecting illegal payments from road users in the area. Two additional militants were wounded during the raid, identified as Xasan Cabdirahman, who was managing the Jambaluul area, and another commander named Geele.
Security personnel also seized extortion receipts, weapons, and a motorcycle belonging to the killed commander.
Ongoing Efforts to Disrupt Al-Shabaab Revenue Streams
The operation forms part of continuous efforts by the Somali Police Force, particularly its Counter-Terrorism Command, to address public complaints regarding illegal taxation imposed by militant groups on civilians. Officials stated that such raids aim to disrupt Al-Shabaab’s revenue streams and protect local communities.
Somali security forces have intensified operations against Al-Shabaab’s extortion networks across the country. The militant group has long relied on illegal taxation of civilians, businesses, and road users as a primary source of funding for its insurgency.
Police Counter-Terrorism Operations
Police Commissioner Asad Osman Abdullahi has previously pledged to eradicate Al-Shabaab checkpoints and extortion schemes, stating that the force remains committed to protecting civilians from militant exploitation.
Senior police commanders have conducted field visits to frontlines in Lower Shabelle to assess ongoing counter-terrorism operations and coordinate with local forces to enhance security in liberated areas.
Public Cooperation and Intelligence Gathering
Citizen tip-offs have played a crucial role in recent successes against Al-Shabaab’s extortion networks. Authorities have encouraged the public to report suspicious activities, emphasizing that community cooperation is essential for sustaining security gains.
Commitment to Civilian Protection
The Waabari operation demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting civilians from militant exploitation and dismantling the financial infrastructure that sustains Al-Shabaab’s insurgency. Officials have reiterated that security forces will continue targeting militant checkpoints and extortion hubs across the country.
The Somali Police Force has reaffirmed its dedication to ongoing operations aimed at eliminating militant presence and ensuring the safety and security of civilian populations.
