Reports from the Middle Jubba region indicate that a senior Al-Shabab leader was killed in an airstrike conducted by a drone belonging to international allies. According to a statement from the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), the airstrike took place in the outskirts of Saakow district in the Middle Jubba region, resulting in the death of Mr. Mohamed Sahal Iidle. Al-Shabab has also confirmed the death of Sheikh Mohamed Sahal, also known as Abu Usama, the Head of the Drought Committee, in an airstrike in the Middle Jubba region. It has been reported that the airstrike targeted a vehicle carrying Sheikh Mohamed Sahal as he was involved in humanitarian relief projects for those affected by drought. The group has stated that Sheikh Abu Usama held various positions within Al-Shabab and was the District Commissioner of Lower Shabelle region when the group controlled the province. Al-Shabab’s press statement was released shortly after NISA announced the death of a senior Al-Shabab leader in the airstrike, but did not officially release his name.
