A senior al-Shabaab commander, Mohamed Mire, has been killed in a U.S. drone strike near Kunyo Barrow in Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region, the militant group confirmed.
While al-Shabab did not specify the date of the strike, it accused the United States of being responsible for Mire’s death.
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed conducting an airstrike on December 24, approximately 10 kilometers southwest of Kunyo Barrow, resulting in the deaths of two militants. AFRICOM did not disclose the identities of those killed but emphasized that no civilians were harmed.
“The command will continue to assess the results of the operation and provide additional information as appropriate,” AFRICOM stated, adding that operational specifics would remain confidential to ensure security.
Somalia’s Ministry of Information praised the operation as a “well-planned” mission executed in partnership with international allies. Lower Shabelle Governor Mohamed Ibrahim Barre revealed that Mire was targeted while traveling from Jilib to Kunyo Barrow.
Mire, who served as the head of al-Shabab’s regions department—a role akin to an interior minister—was also listed among Somalia’s sanctioned individuals for his involvement in financing militant activities.
In October 2022, U.S. officials designated Mire as a global terrorist, highlighting his role in al-Shabab’s strategic decision-making and oversight of key operations across Somalia.
