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Former Al-Shabaab spokesman arrested in Somalia

December 13, 2018 at 10:01 pm

Mukhtar Robow Abu Mansur (centre) is seen during a Al-Shabaab press conference during his time as the group’s spokesperson

A former Al-Shabaab spokesman has been arrested in southwestern Somalia, an official said, reports Anadolu Agency.

Mukhtar Robow, also known as Abu Mansor, was arrested by Somali and Ethiopian troops in a joint operation in the city of Baidoa, said a senior government official on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media.

Somali Internal Security Ministry confirmed the arrest of former Al-Shabaab spokesman in a statement.

“On Thursday, our security forces have arrested Mukhtar Robow in Baidoa, where he was working to organize unlawful militias that risk the security of the town,” the statement said.

READ: Al-Shabaab denounces ex-spokesperson as ’apostate’

Robow was a presidential candidate for the South West State election scheduled for December 5. However, the country’s election commission postponed the polls on December 1 for the third time.

Angry protesters took to the streets in Baidoa and widespread civil unrest broke out after the arrest of former Al-Shabaab deputy leader, according to local media.