Security forces in Somalia’s Southwest State have killed a senior Al-Shabaab operative responsible for collecting illegal payments from civilians in the Berdaale district, state officials confirmed on Monday, The operation was carried out overnight by special police units..
Source said, the Oparetion care out the Security Forces in the Mundala Sheela area between Berdaale and Loowgoof, The target, Moalim Adan Qaddiid, was described as the group’s lead extortion officer, known locally as a sakawaad, He was reportedly tasked with collecting “taxes” from residents to fund militant activities.
Officials said Qaddiid had been a key figure in Al-Shabaab’s financial network, harassing villagers and demanding payments under threats of violence, During the operation, security forces recovered an AK-47 rifle, a loaded magazine, and a Fekon motorcycle from the scene. The items were later displayed to the media.
Berdaale District Commissioner Mohamed Isaaq urged local residents to work with security forces to help root out militant influence, “Civilians are critical in this fight,” he said. “We ask for their cooperation in reporting threats and helping us restore lasting peace.”
