Somali Affairs
Senior ISIL commander captured in Somalia amid military offensive
February 18, 2025
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Abdirahman Shirwac Aw-Saciid, a high-profile operative responsible for orchestrating assassinations for ISIL, surrendered to authorities on Monday in the Cal Miskaad mountains in northeastern Puntland state, Somalia’s state news agency SONNA reported, as cited by Al Jazeera.
His capture follows a strategic series of U.S. airstrikes targeting ISIL leadership in the region just two days prior. The offensive is part of an ongoing effort to dismantle the group’s expanding influence in Somalia.
In recent years, ISIL’s Somalia faction has become an increasingly significant component of the group's global network. Strengthened by an influx of foreign fighters and increased financial resources, the organization has adopted more sophisticated tactics. Analysts point to a December attack on a military base where ISIL deployed two booby-trapped vehicles, signaling an evolution in its operational strategy. (Reuters)
The capture of a senior ISIL commander marks an important victory in Somalia’s fight against extremism.
On Monday, Puntland’s Bari regional police chief, Abdikadir Jama Dirir, confirmed the arrest of Aw-Saciid, who also operated under the alias “Laahoor.” He was a key figure in ISIL’s extortion network, pressuring local businesses to pay financial tributes to the terrorist organization. (Horseed Media)
The Puntland administration launched a large-scale military offensive in December, targeting both ISIL and the al-Qaeda-affiliated al-Shabab group in an effort to weaken the influence of militant factions in the country, as reported by Al Jazeera.
The recent U.S. air raids have significantly reduced ISIL’s operational capacity, according to security analysts. These precision strikes targeted ISIL strongholds and leadership structures, posing a major setback to the group's ability to plan and execute attacks.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump praised the military action, stating: “These killers, who we found hiding in caves, threatened the United States and our allies. The strikes destroyed the caves they lived in and eliminated many terrorists without harming civilians.” (Reuters)
For years, Somalia’s security landscape has been dominated by al-Shabab, which continues to control large swathes of territory in the southern regions. However, ISIL’s increasing footprint in the country has created additional security concerns for both local and international forces. (AllAfrica)
Despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts by the Somali government and its allies, the country remains vulnerable due to decades of civil unrest. The military offensive against ISIL and al-Shabab represents a crucial step towards reestablishing control, but long-term stability requires sustained and strategic efforts, according to Al Jazeera.
The capture of a senior ISIL commander marks an important victory in Somalia’s fight against extremism. However, sustainable peace and security require more than military action. A comprehensive approach involving political stabilization, economic investment, and social development is essential to prevent the resurgence of terrorist groups.
Somalia holds immense potential, from its strategic geographical position to the resilience of its people. Moving forward, strengthening governance, investing in education, and fostering economic opportunities will be crucial in creating a stable and prosperous nation. The recent progress in counterterrorism efforts should serve as a foundation for broader reforms that ensure lasting peace and security for all Somalis.
