Puntland Forces Seize Key Mountain Strongholds from ISIS in Major Offensive

BOSASO, Somalia - The Puntland Defense Forces seized major strategic areas in eastern parts of the Cal-Miskaad mountains, the military reported, highlighting its ability to conduct large-scale operations, with minimum aid from external actors key among them the US and UAE.

For over a month now, the regional troops have made noticeable gains on the battlefield, with the US Africa Command and the United Arab Emirates troops giving substantial air support, which has helped combat troops.

On Thursday, the military took control of Dhaqas, Qurac, and Damdamle areas in the Calmiskaad mountains, a security official said, adding that the final phase targets major hideouts within some caves in eastern Puntland.

The operation marks a significant advance against Islamic State militants in the Bari region. Details on the number of foreign ISIS terrorists killed by the forces are expected to be released soon, the military officials said in an update on X platform.

"Today, Puntland’s Counter-Terrorism Forces have taken control of the areas of Dhaqas, Qurac, and Damdamle, which are part of #Calmiskaad mountains. Updates on the bodies of the foreign ISIS terrorists killed by the forces will be released soon."

ISIS militants have started relocating after dozens lost their lives in different encounters with the Puntland forces. The airstrikes carried out by Americans and the UAE have annihilated over 100 militants within the last month according to those privy to the official data.

This comes in the middle of a snub by the federal government, whose only contribution has been acknowledging the progress made without duly recognizing Puntland’s effort. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is yet to visit the region since the offensive started.

Elsewhere, the Somali National Army killed over 130 Al-Shabaab militants after repelling a major attack in El Ali Ahmed, Ali Fooldheere, Alkowsar, and Daarunimca (Middle Shabelle). A large cache of weapons was also seized, officials said.

GAROWE ONLINE