By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Somali Forces Kill Al-Shabaab Commander Behind Failed Attack on President
Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) says its forces have killed Mohamed Abdi Dhiblaawe Afrax, a senior Al-Shabaab commander accused of masterminding the failed assassination attempt on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud earlier this year.
According to NISA, Afrax was eliminated during a planned operation in Ugunji, in the Lower Shabelle region.
Authorities identified him as the key figure behind the March 18, 2025 attack on the President’s convoy near Ceel-gaabta junction in Xamar-Jajab district, Mogadishu. President Mohamud was on his way to the airport to join troops in Hirshabelle when the convoy came under fire.
The assault, which Al-Shabaab later claimed responsibility for, caused civilian casualties, including deaths and injuries. The Ministry of Information confirmed at the time that the President escaped unharmed and completed his trip.
The attempted assassination drew widespread condemnation. The Arab League described it as a “blatant attack,” while the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) labelled it a “heinous act,” with both bodies reaffirming their support for Somalia’s fight against terrorism.
NISA said the killing of Afrax marks a significant step toward justice and accountability, adding that more details about the operation will be made public soon.
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