Somalia: Mass graves discovered in Puntland as ISIS loses grounds

BOSASO, Somalia - The Puntland Defense Forces discovered several fresh mass graves within the vicinity of Cal-Miskaad mountains, the counterterrorism center reported, highlighting the possibility of severe losses on the ISIS militants within the state.

Several bodies bodies were also tumbled on as the forces made huge gains, officials said, with the graves believed to be the final resting places for their senior leaders, who had died side the beginning of Operation Lightning.

"There are also bodies and a mass grave where the terrorists buried some of their senior members," the counterterrorism center said in a post on X, reaffirming the military's determination to eradicate the militants.

It could not be established the correct number of the ISIS militants who have died. Still, many may have fallen following aerial bombardments by the US Africa Command and the United Arab Emirates. The ground combats have also been severe.

Also seized were several vehicles and motorcycles destroyed by the airstrikes, with the forces projecting that the militants may have been planning to use them in bombing military bases and strategic locations for the frontline teams.

"The Puntland Counter-Terrorism Forces have found some of the vehicles and motorcycles belonging to ISIS terrorists that were destroyed in the recent airstrikes in Almiskat. These vehicles and motorcycles were initially planned for bombings but were eliminated in the strikes."

Earlier, the Puntland Counter-Terrorism Forces conducted operations in Cuuraar and the surrounding areas of GaatirOodan. They took control of part of the major bases where ISIS terrorists were hiding, officials said.

The operation is set to go on as Puntland calls for honest and consistent support for local troops. ISIS militants are trying to establish formidable bases in Somalia but the attempts have been met by fierce resistance by members of the military.

GAROWE ONLINE