ISIS sniper training camp seized in Somalia's Puntland

BOSASO, Somalia - Resilient Puntland forces seized an ISIS militants training camp within the state, authorities confirmed, in the latest significant development, which comes at the time the country is making huge strides in the fight against violent extremist groups.

According to the Puntland counterterrorism operations centre, the sniper training camp was discovered at the top of Cal-Miskaad mountains where the military has camped for the last two months, engaging the militants who had established several bases.

The sniper training camp helped the group prepare adequately — thus its capture perhaps highlights the positive progress by the military teams. For the last two months, the Operation Lightning has reflected the potential of local troops in the fight against terrorism.

Reports further indicate that the training camp was located in Dibi-Ganuun area of the Calmiskaad mountains, where intense fighting between the terrorists and the military has been recorded. Previously, a weapon manufacturing factory was seized within the vicinity.

The successful operation resulted in the capture of military supplies and food stockpiles belonging to the terrorists, officials said. Further details on casualties and the scope of the seized materials were not immediately available to the media.

Elsewhere, Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni warned against politicizing national security, emphasizing the need for unity to defeat terrorist groups in Somalia. The Puntland leader has been on the frontlines supporting local troops in the fight against ISIS.

With ISIS capacity annihilated in the north, the major focus is elsewhere in the country, especially in Middle Shabelle where the al-Shabaab militants have reigned terror on innocent civilians and members of the Somali National Army (SNA).

Somalia heavily depends on the US Africa Command and the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) for the execution of sophisticated military activities in the country. Shortly, the foreign troops shall hand over military responsibilities to the SNA.

GAROWE ONLINE