Somalia: Senior Al-Shabaab commander Farah-Jilib killed in Jubaland, Danab precision raid

KISMAYO, Somalia - A senior Al-Shabaab figure popularly known as Farah-Jilib has been killed along with seven of his bodyguards in a precision operation carried out by Jubaland forces and the Somali National Army's Danab forces, according to security sources.

Images from the scene showing the bodies of the Al-Shabaab leader and seven of his guards were shared online, but due to their graphic nature, they could not be publicly displayed, authorities said.

Officials say the operation targeted the group’s leadership as they attempted to move between positions near Jilib, further tightening pressure on the network’s command structure. The forces are moving forward towards Jilib, the traditional headquarters of Al-Shabaab.

The latest developments add to growing signs that Al-Shabaab’s leadership is under strain, with some commanders fleeing long-held positions amid sustained advances by Somali forces.

As Jubbaland and SNA-Danab units continue to push forward, the militants’ room to maneuver is shrinking. Areas once considered “safe zones” are now contested or collapsing under Jubaland government pressure.

The significant gains come just a few days after the Jubaland regional forces and their SNA colleagues, alongside the international partners, managed to liberate Jamaame. The forces are currently moving towards the Jilib corridor in Middle Jubba.

Al-Shabaab fighters have been struggling to contain their bases as the operation takes another significant phase. The government of Somalia is optimistic that the Al-Shabaab militants will finally surrender by taking advantage of the amnesty. 

GAROWE ONLINE