Badhan (Sahan Post):— Puntland authorities have released the findings of a forensic and police investigation into the killing of prominent Somali clan leader and registered peacemaker Omar Abdullahi Abdi Ibrahim, who was killed in a U.S. AFRICOM drone strike in the Sanaag region on September 13. The regional administration said the investigation confirmed that Abdullahi had no criminal records, casting doubt on the initial U.S. intelligence that led to the strike.
The findings were presented during a ceremony in Badhan, attended by Puntland officials, tradional leaders and the Investigation Commsion, where authorities emphasized Abdullahi’s role as a well-known peace advocate in the region.
The Puntland Forensic Department and Police Commission, tasked with investigating the incident, reached the strike site on September 14. They carried out a detailed forensic assessment, collecting debris, examining the destroyed vehicle, and conducting DNA tests to confirm Abdullahi’s identity.
“We reached the area of the strike (crime scene) on 14 September. We took all the legal steps, and we investigated deeply, collecting all the necessary proof needed, the remaining equipment used, and collected DNA of the deceased peacemaker from his remains,” the statement said.
Investigators also interviewed local residents and witnesses.
“The findings indicated that the peacemaker Omar Abdullahi was burnt and died in the strike of the missiles attacked by airplanes,” The statement added.
The evidence presented included death certificates, the destroyed vehicle, and official documentation confirming Abdullahi’s registration as a peacemaker in Puntland. Officials noted that there were no prior criminal records against him in any Puntland criminal investigations or other government institutions.
“There is no record of any crime accused to Peacemaker Omar Abdullahi.” Affirming a government statement, referenced as Ref. HNSDPL/HP/GB/0112, dated November 1, 2025.
The report concluded that Abdullahi was traveling alone from Ceel Buh to Badhan when he was struck, and that he had no history of criminal suspicion.
U.S. AFRICOM had released a preliminary report on September 17, stating the strike targeted an arms dealer linked to al-Shabaab. The report, however, provided no supporting evidence. These claims were denied by both al-Shabaab and the family of the slain peacemaker.
Speaking to Sahan Post, Abdullahi’s brother Ali Abdullahi said his sibling had been wrongfully targeted and demanded accountability:
“My brother was innocent. He was working for peace in the region, and we are demanding justice for him.”
The case raises questions over U.S. intelligence and targeting protocols, as well as whether international human rights standards were fully respected in the strike. Said Ahmed a human rights activists, based in Badhan says “the slain leader’s long-standing peace advocacy and absence of any criminal record challenge the basis of AFRICOM’s operation“.
“The investigation underscores ongoing concerns about civilian protection in counterterrorism operations in Somalia“Added Mr. Ahmed, highlights the need for transparency in drone strikes conducted in the region“
Puntland authorities, tradional leaders also called for clarification.
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