Somalia’s elite Danab Commandos have neutralised a high-ranking al-Shabab commander, Abdi Jabbar, during a precision operation in the southern village of Yuumbis, about seven kilometres northwest of Barire in the Lower Shabelle region. The sting operation, which occurred on Monday evening, resulted in the deaths of eight al-Shabab militants, including Jabbar, a key operative behind a wave of deadly explosive attacks in the region.
The Ministry of Defense confirmed on July 1 that Jabbar had been the group’s head of explosives in Gedo and later in Lower Shabelle, where he masterminded the destruction of critical infrastructure such as the bridges in Bariire, Sabiid, and Caanoole. With ties to al-Shabab dating back 18 years, his death marks a significant setback for the group’s bomb-making and tactical operations, according to the ministry.
Authorities hailed the operation as part of a broader national effort to dismantle al-Shabab’s command structure and restore security across the country. More than 50 militants have been eliminated in recent weeks as Somali forces intensify their campaign against insurgent elements. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring lasting peace and stability, pledging to pursue every remaining terrorist to safeguard the future of the Somali people.