Khaatumo Confirms: Al-Shabaab Behind Assassination of Ethiopian Diplomat

Laascaanood, SOOL – The already fragile security situation in Laascaanood has taken a darker turn after the confirmed assassination of Faarax Ceydiid Jaamac Bariis, an Ethiopian diplomat and senior intelligence officer, by militants from the extremist group Al-Shabaab.

“He was a marked man,” said Cilmi. “They [Al-Shabaab] had him in their sights for some time. He was killed not only because of his defection but also because of the sensitive intelligence he carried.”

The confirmation came from the Attorney General of Sool-Bari of Ex Khaatumo (Eastern Sool), Elmi, who was also a close associate of the slain diplomat. According to him, Bariis, once a member of Al-Shabaab’s own network, was targeted for months by the group before they successfully executed thrown on the outskirts of Laascaanood.

From Militant to Diplomat: A Dangerous Path

Sources familiar with Bariis’s background describe a complex and dangerous trajectory. Known widely by the alias “Bariis”, he was once embedded in the intelligence wing of Al-Shabaab before defecting and reportedly cooperating with the Ethiopian government. He later rose through the ranks of security and became one of the highest-ranking intelligence operatives tied to Ethiopia’s operations in Somalia.

According to confidential sources, his recent activities included surveillance of Somali elements with suspected links to extremist networks, using his new diplomatic immunity to shield his operations. Bariis held Ethiopian citizenship and had extensive training in security and espionage.

Just six weeks prior to his death, Bariis was quietly appointed to the Ethiopian consulate in Garoowe, Puntland, where he was tasked with monitoring Ethiopian nationals crossing the border. However, multiple sources allege that his diplomatic post was a cover for deeper intelligence work involving Somali actors operating on behalf of Ethiopian interests.

Assassination and Aftermath

Bariis was reportedly lured and killed after being tracked by Al-Shabaab for several months. The assailants not only fatally shot him, but also confiscated his mobile devices and filmed the encounter, underscoring the premeditated nature of the assassination.

His death sheds new light on Laascaanood’s descent into insecurity. While the region has long been a focal point for clan tensions and political contestation, the confirmation of Al-Shabaab activity within and around the city marks a dangerous shift. Khaatumo’s Attorney General also admitted that operatives from the extremist group are now openly active in Laascaanood, a reality that poses grave implications for local governance and regional stability.

Abdi Madoobe Connection and Federal Ties

Photos circulating on social media show Bariis alongside Abdi Madoobe, a controversial figure with alleged militant ties, and Somali Federal Police Commissioner Gen. Asad Diyaano, during the controversial visit by the Somali Prime Minister to Laascaanood. The images have raised eyebrows among analysts who now question the extent of infiltration and collaboration within federal and militant lines.

Sool-Bari Silent

Despite the gravity of the incident and the apparent breach of regional security, Sool-Bari (Eastern Sool) authorities have remained silent. The lack of official response from local leadership is fueling criticism and suspicion regarding the true extent of militant influence in the area.

As Laascaanood becomes an increasingly contested hotspot between geopolitical interests, armed non-state actors, and community governance, the killing of Bariis may mark not only a high-profile assassination — but a clear signal that terror groups are embedding deeper into the heart of the conflict-ridden districts.

President Irro’s Speech Highlights Security Reform

Coinciding with this latest development, President Abdirahman Mohamed Irro addressed both Houses of Parliament in his annual speech, emphasizing peace and security as the government’s foremost priority. He unveiled sweeping military reforms, the launch of a National Reserve Army, and strict measures to control armed clan militias. The President’s focus on national defense appears ever more relevant as terror looms in strategic towns like Laascaanood.