Somalia: Puntland forces capture 9 drones, kill 26 ISIS militants

BOSSASO, Somalia - Operation Lightning continued for the second week in succession, with Puntland Defence Forces making tremendous progress towards the eastern parts of the state, with the ultimate goal being dethroning the IS-Somalia militants.

According to military sources, the Puntland forces managed to capture nine drones — including both surveillance and explosive-laden types intended for attacks on military bases. Officials termed to operation "a huge success".

The seizure came after a clash with Islamic State militants in which the forces also recaptured key strategic areas in the Al-Miskaad mountains previously used as launch sites for attacks.

During the clashes, at least 26 militants were killed, including five foreigners while capturing two major ISIS bases and downing nine drones in an operation in the Cal Miskaad mountain range in the Bari region, an operations spokesperson said on Monday.

The offensive marks a significant blow to ISIS operations in the area, with the seizure of the bases and the downing of surveillance or attack drones indicating a tactical success for Puntland's security forces.

ISIS militants have suffered immense losses in recent weeks after President Said Abdullahi Deni unveiled operations against the militants. The IS Somalia militants have been expanding their bases beyond the Bari region, miles from Bosaso town.

A report published by the State Department of the United States termed the group "dangerous" and warned about the possible expansion of their territories. The group is also said to be recruiting foreign fighters who benefit from weapons tendered from abroad.

However, the operation by the Puntland forces has managed to neutralize quite a number of the fighters besides liberating several strategic towns. Puntland is considered the safest state within Somalia, with the rest battling with the high presence of the Al-Shabaab militants.

GAROWE ONLINE