Former Somali National Army (SNA) commander General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyiddin has expressed grave concern that the al-Shabaab militant group may have infiltrated into the Somali military, following the assassination of Senior Lieutenant Colonel Nur Mohamed Gaabow, known as Nur Farey.
“We are in a difficult time where there is no clear distinction between the enemy and the army. The enemy is hiding within the ranks of the army in every form,” said Gen. Muhyiddin, calling the killing of the commander both regrettable and a sign of institutional neglect.
He noted that the slain commander, who was killed in Ado-Diidible between Afgooye and Laanta Buure, was known for his trust in his troops.
Gen. Muhyiddin explained that Nur Farey had sidelined his most trusted guards to meet with soldiers who had grievances—one of whom may have been the gunman.
Despite raising concerns about infiltration, Muhyiddin clarified that it remains unclear whether the shooter was a member of the Somali army or an al-Shabaab infiltrator in military uniform.
Military officials confirmed that the commander was shot at close range during a routine inspection ahead of a major offensive against al-Shabaab.
HOL could not independently verify allegations of al-Shabaab infiltration into the Somali National Army.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud condemned the killing and confirmed that a full investigation is underway to determine who was behind the attack and whether it involved an inside threat or an al-Shabaab operative.
