AFRICOM’s post-strike assessments have confirmed that one of the militants killed during its recent precision drone attack was Al-Shabaab’s senior leader.
The long-standing leader was identified as Yusuf Jiis. He is one of the extremist group’s founders.
According to AFRICOM, Jiis had occupied multiple positions of influence in the terrorist organization, which enabled him and his group to facilitate violent attacks in the region.
Gen. Stephen Townsend, AFRICOM’s Commander, said Jiis was one of the most influential leaders in Al-Shabaab.
He added, “Jiis has been violent and ruthless over the years he has worked for Al-Shabaab. He has been responsible for the tons of lives lost in Somalia and the Horn of Africa region too.”
Gen. Townsend concluded that his elimination makes the country and entire region much safer for everyone.
AFRICOM conducted this deadly precision attack in the outskirts of Bush Madina in conjunction with Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) troops.