Somalia: ISIS Militants Suffer Further Losses in Puntland

BOSASO, Somalia - The Puntland Counter-Terrorism Forces inflicted more losses on the ISIS militants in the northern state of Somalia, following major operations on Tuesday within Miraale and Baalade areas within the restless Bari region, where the group has been initiating assaults.

At least 35 militants were killed following the coordinated operations, officials said, adding that the militants had initially lost 10 fighters around Miraale after a confrontation with the Puntland regional forces, who have been on the frontlines for some months.

Team leaders paraded bodies of militants badly mutilated after declaring victory against the group, with several foreign nationals identified. The militants were planning to flee the mountain, but the troops managed to counter them effectively.

The troops also destroyed a cache of weapons and military equipment used by the group. It is now believed that the militants have retreated to the Balade valley near Bosaso, where they are regrouping following airstrikes by the US and United Arab Emirates forces.

This latest assault follows last week's significant military gain when Puntland forces captured the ISIS command center in Miraale Valley. The fall of the command marks a major milestone in the fight against the group, which is limited to the eastern parts of Puntland.

Ground Forces are working closely with the US Africa Command, which initiated the first airstrikes against ISIS militants from early this year, with President Donald Trump making a first-ever announcement about the deaths of ISIS fighters in Somalia.

While the US insists on supporting counter-terrorism efforts in Somalia, it has, however, insisted that other partners must contribute equally towards the objectives of defeating the group. In Southern regions, Al-Shabaab militants are also unleashing terror against innocent civilians.

GAROWE ONLINE