Somali authorities have reported the death of a suspected leader of the jihadist group Al Shabaab, an organization affiliated with Al Qaeda, during an operation carried out "in collaboration with international partners" in the Lower Shabelle region, south of the capital, Mogadishu.
The National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) stated in a statement released on social media that the suspect "had previously survived three operations planned to eliminate him."
At the moment, the agency has not released the name of the deceased. However, the fact that it confirms he had already been the target of several security force operations suggests he would be among those most wanted by the Government for his role within Al Shabaab.
In recent months, the terrorist group has intensified its attacks, even occupying areas north of Mogadishu. This escalation has led Somali authorities to reinforce their offensives with the backing of local clans and militias, in addition to the support of international partners, as part of the plan promoted by the Somali president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.