Somalia: Surveillance drone seized by Al Shabaab group in Southern Somalia

Image

KISMAYO, Somalia- A surveillance drone thought to belong to US intelligence agencies, has crashed near Kismayo city, the regional capital of Jubaland state, Garowe Online reports.   

The drone crashed in Qudus distinct located 45 km west of Kismayo city, an area controlled by Al Shabaab militant group.

The group has announced that its fighters have seized US drone, amid increase of surveillance and airstrikes missions by US intelligence agencies against the group in Lower Jubba region.

“The drone took off from CIA outpost located in Kismayo city, and was conducting surveillance mission in areas controlled by Al Shabaab,” said one of Al Shabab leaders to their affiliated media.   

He said that they have found a camera installed within the drone, which recorded images and videos of the group intended to be passed to the US intelligence agencies.

So far there is no statement has been released by Jubaland administration or US intelligence agencies in response to the crashed drone in Al Shabaab controlled areas near Kismayo city.

US forces have provided military support to Somali government in their military campaign against Al Qaida linked Al Shabaab group and intensified its airstrikes against the militants stronghold areas in Southern Somalia.

GAROWEONLINE

Related Articles

Man on trial in UK over alleged attempt to join Islamic State militants in Somalia

According to the prosecution, Mohamoud responded that he was “longing for martyrdom” and believed there was “no better moment” to join the group.

  • Somalia

    05-08-2026

  • 12:58PM

Puntland says Galkayo operation sent ‘clear message’ to Somali government

The latest clash adds to growing tensions between Mogadishu and some regional administrations over security, governance and political issues.

  • Somalia

    05-08-2026

  • 12:39PM