Monday May 29, 2023
Mogadishu (HOL) - The Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), a senior Al-Shabaab figure, Abdirahman Ma'alin Ahmed, has laid down his weapons and turned himself over to authorities.
Among his numerous posts, Ahmed was the self-appointed chief of Al-Shabaab's Banadir Regional Court. He was also the General Head of Al-Shabaab's Court. Somali intelligence officials say that Ahmed was a trusted confidant and advisor to the late Al-Shabaab leader, Ahmed Godane.
One of Ahmed's duties was overseeing the collection of extortion funds in the volatile Lower Shabelle region, which underlined his importance within the organization as a key player in the group's economic operations.
Security analysts expect Ahmed's surrender to be a crucial blow to Al-Shabaab.
