Somali intelligence agency kills senior al-Shabab figure accused in major attacks

Mogadishu (HOL) — The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) killed former leader of al-Shabab’s security wing, Bashir Ahmed Haji Nunow, during a planned operation in Jilib district.

In a statement on Tuesday, NISA said the operation took place on the night of Oct. 1 and was carried out in coordination with international partners.

advertisements The agency said Nunow led al-Shabab’s security wing, known as Amniyat, between 2016 and 2024.

NISA said he also used several aliases, including Geescadde, Fanax, Gardhuub and Ali Dheere.

According to NISA, Nunow played a role in planning and carrying out al-Shabab attacks inside Somalia, including the Oct. 14, 2017 truck bombing at Soobe Junction in Mogadishu, the Ex-Control Afgoye attack, the bombing known as Soobe 2 and other attacks in the capital.

The agency underlined that the Jilib operation was part of ongoing efforts to pursue al-Shabab leaders accused of involvement in attacks targeting Somali civilians.

“Nunow’s death could affect al-Shabab’s leadership and networks, particularly those involved in planning and carrying out attacks, NISA said.

Al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-linked group, continues to carry out attacks in Somalia despite military operations by Somali forces and international partners.