(19-06-24) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – Al-Shabaab defections have been on an upward trajectory in recent months, mainly due to the military offensive against the group, which has put pressure on militant members, forcing them to surrender to government authorities.
A day after four militants were reported to have surrendered to joint SNA and Jubaland military forces in the recently liberated Bulo Haji town on the outskirts of Kismayo, another defection was reported in Wajid, Bakol region, South West State. Ibrahim Sheikh Adan, also known as Yowkoyow in Al-Shabaab circles, handed himself over to authorities in Wajid.
Yowkoyow is unique among recent defectors, having served the group for 16 years, mainly in the Jabhat (military) wing, making him a battle-hardened militant who participated in numerous battles against government security forces.
He cited harsh living conditions and a long-harboured intention to desert the group to return to normal life. He called on his colleagues in the group to surrender to the government and take advantage of the effective government amnesty for peacefully defecting militants. He was welcomed by authorities in Bakool and will join other defectors who are in rehabilitation to help them return to normal life.
Halqabsi News
