Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has confirmed the killing of a senior Al-Shabaab commander responsible for finances in the Banadir region during a planned security operation in Lower Shabelle.
The suspect, identified as Ahmed Dhubad Xidig, also known as Sheikh Adan Dheere, was killed on January 27 during an operation carried out in the Daniga Baaloow area. According to NISA, the operation targeted a location where the commander was hiding.
Specially trained Gaashaan forces surrounded the house during the raid. NISA said the suspect was killed after attempting to resist arrest during the operation.
Security officials stated that Ahmed Dhubad Xidig joined Al-Shabaab in 2008 and had played a key role in extorting money from civilians. He previously served as the group’s finance operative in several regions, including Mudug, Galgaduud, Hiiraan and Lower Shabelle.
NISA said the suspect had been under surveillance for a long period before the operation was executed successfully.
The agency has once again urged members of the public to cooperate with security forces by reporting any security threats or information related to Al-Shabaab or ISIS through its official hotlines.