MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia has confirmed the death of a high-ranking Al-Shabaab commander during a strategic security operation in the Lower Shabelle region.
Defense Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi confirmed that Abdullahi Hassan Abdi Osoble, widely known as Abdullahi Wadaad, was eliminated in a targeted operation in the Kuunyo Barrow area on January 23.
Targeting Financial Networks
The operation was executed by Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) working alongside international partners.
According to intelligence reports, Abdullahi Wadaad served as a primary financial commander for the militant group. He was responsible for directing operations against “Zakat” activities, often a euphemism for extortion, in Lower Shabelle and Banadir.
Minister Fiqi highlighted that the deceased commander was notorious for looting public assets and was responsible for the targeted killings of business investors.
Dismantling Leadership
NISA stated that it had been monitoring Wadaad for an extended period due to his role in exploiting public resources and endangering civilians.
During a press conference, the Defense Minister described the elimination of Wadaad as a significant blow to the group’s leadership structure and its capacity to fund violent activities. He noted that the commander was also implicated in planning multiple explosions within the country.
Authorities characterized the operation as a crucial advancement in safeguarding citizens against financial exploitation and intimidation, reaffirming the government’s dedication to dismantling the extremist organization’s hierarchy.
