MOGADISHU (SD)— Reports that a former senior Somali intelligence officer has joined Al-Shabaab have raised serious security concerns. There are fears that he may have taken secret government information with him. This could put security officers, informants and military operations at risk.

The officer is known only as Lukman. He reportedly served as commander of the Dufan special forces unit and deputy commander of NISA special forces. Early reports say he was removed from his position after security concerns arose. He is then said to have left Mogadishu through Daynile and the Basra area of Lower Shabelle. He reportedly travelled to Middle Juba, where Al-Shabaab has a strong presence.

The main concern is that Lukman may have taken computers, communication equipment and secret documents. These materials are said to be linked to the Dufan unit. If this is true, Al-Shabaab could use them to identify government informants and track security officers. The group could also learn about military plans and security operations.

This could put many lives in danger. People who secretly provide information to NISA could become targets. Security officers could also face greater risks. Al-Shabaab may use the information to plan attacks or avoid government forces.

However, the reports have not yet been officially confirmed. It is not clear whether the officer joined Al-Shabaab or whether he took government equipment and documents with him.

Lukman is said to have held senior positions in Dufan. The unit is linked to NISA and reportedly received training in Turkey. His reported departure has raised questions about how he was able to leave Mogadishu and whether security checks were properly carried out.

The biggest danger is that Al-Shabaab may gain access to secret government information. This could help the group find informants and target intelligence officers. It could also expose military plans and ongoing operations.

The incident raises serious questions about security inside NISA. Authorities need to establish what happened. They must also find out whether any secret information is missing and whether people who worked with the officer are now in danger.

For President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s government, the priority is to investigate the reports and protect anyone whose identity may have been exposed. The government must also make sure that other secret information remains safe.

If confirmed, this incident could give Al-Shabaab access to information that may help it target the very people working to protect Somalia.