MOGADISHU, Somalia — Puntland authorities confirmed the death of elder Caaqil Omar in an airstrike that targeted his vehicle with three missiles on Friday.
Caaqil Omar Abdullahi Abdi was traveling alone near Jiicaanyo village in Ceelbuh district when Puntland officials said the missile strike occurred.
Puntland police reported the vehicle was completely destroyed, with Omar’s remains found inside, confirming his death.
“The vehicle and body were severely damaged,” police said. “Our investigation shows the elder was traveling alone toward Badhan town.”
Witnesses said they saw a military aircraft launch three missiles at the elder’s vehicle during the airstrike.
Omar had recently participated in a Puntland state development conference in Badhan, Ceelbuh, and Bosaso, officials confirmed regarding his movements before the strike.
It is unclear which country carried out the bombing. However, U.S. AFRICOM and the UAE have previously conducted drone strikes against militants in Puntland.
Omar’s brother, Ali Abdullahi Abdi, called for transparency, stressing the elder had no links to terrorist groups or militant organizations in Somalia.
“All we have are his remains,” Ali said. “We demand clear answers from Puntland authorities about the airstrike targeting Caaqil Omar’s vehicle.”
Puntland security leaders, including Vice President Ilyaas Lugatoor, have been contacted by family members seeking explanations for the airstrike.
The airstrike marks the first drone attack reprted in Ceelbuh, sparking fear and questions among local communities in the Sanaag region.
An official report on the Puntland airstrike has not yet been released and investigations into the cause and responsible parties are ongoing.