Somalia: Puntland Forces Capture ISIS Members Involved in Extortion and Bombings

BOSASO, Somalia - Puntland security forces have captured members of the Islamic State (Daesh) accused of extorting money and carrying out bombings in Bosaso, Bari region Police Commander Colonel Abdikadir Jama Dirir said on Wednesday.

Speaking to reporters, Dirir said the arrests were part of a large-scale operation targeting Daesh in the city, conducted with support from local residents. He described the effort as a success in curbing the group’s activities but did not disclose the number of detainees.

The commander added that the campaign aims to dismantle both Daesh and al-Shabaab in Bosaso, noting that several individuals who fled the Calmiskaad mountains are now in custody. Daesh has long extorted money from locals, often under the guise of "Zakat," targeting those who refused payment, he said.

Local reports suggest traders who once paid the fees have stopped since the operation began in the Calmiskaad mountains, restricting the group’s movements. Bosaso, a commercial hub in Puntland, has faced persistent security threats from militant groups.

Puntland authorities provided no further details on the ongoing operations.

GAROWE ONLINE