Boat carrying military uniforms seized in Puntland amid war on ISIS

BOSASO, Somalia - A boat carrying military unified was seized by the Puntland Devish Forces, officials said, suspecting that the gears were being transported by ISIS militants who are under pressure to surrender following sustained military operations in eastern parts of Puntland.

The Jubaland forces with the help of the US Africa Command and the United Arab Emirates military have been pursuing ISIS militants in Puntland's state, leading to the death of dozens of the fighters, officials said.

According to officials, the boat in question was nabbed carrying uniforms and equipment believed to be weapons in the waters near Qaw in the Bari region amid the ongoing war against ISIS within the northern state of Somalia.

The Somali men on board are currently under investigation, according to authorities, and would face the full force of the law if it is established that they are part of the group that has been fighting to destabilize the state in recent years.

Over the weekend, the ISIS group in Al-Miskaad mountains was hit by massive US airstrikes on Feb. 1st which targeted key leaders, including attack planner, according to President Donald Trump. It has since emerged that the airstrikes targeting caves were aimed at ISIS leader Abdulkadir Mumin.

On Monday, a senior ISIS commander, Abdirahman Shirwa (Lahoor), surrendered to Puntland security forces in the Cal Miskaad mountains, near Qandala town, which has borne the brunt of ISIS attacks.

Exclusive video footage shows Puntland forces accompanying Lahoor after his surrender, confirming his capture. This comes after Puntland forces seized key ISIS positions and launched heavy airstrikes on their hideouts.

This marks a major blow to ISIS in the region, with more surrenders expected as Puntland forces intensify operations, analysts argue. The second phase of operations against ISIS is set to commence in due course after successes in first operation.

GAROWE ONLINE