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According to officials in Mali, a senior Islamic State group commander linked to a deadly attack on US forces in Africa was killed by Mali’s security forces. 

Abu Huzeifa, also known as Higgo, played a crucial role in the 2017 attack on US and Nigerien soldiers in Tongo Tongo, Niger, resulting in the deaths of eight soldiers. The US State Department had previously offered a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to his capture, highlighting his significance within the terrorist organization.

The operation, conducted in northern Mali, involved local Tuareg forces alongside the Malian military. The successful targeting of Huzeifa was confirmed by the government on state television, which displayed a photo of his deceased body in military gear. 

Higgo’s death comes as Mali continues to combat jihadist groups linked to both al-Qaida and the Islamic State. The country, which has faced two significant coups since 2020, has been struggling to fight back against terrorists in the region who often move between “the Sahel.” Within the Sahel, terrorists often move between Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, which makes it difficult to combat. 

Recently, Mali announced a security pact with neighboring Niger and Burkina Faso to strengthen regional defense against insurgencies.