Somalia: Puntland Forces Make Major Gains Against ISIS, kill 15 in offensive

BOSASO, Somalia - Over eight months since the activation of Operation Hillaac, Puntland forces continue to inflict losses on ISIS terrorists in eastern parts of the state, with the terrorist group suffering immense blows in recent weeks.

Days after heavy operations in the Bari region, Puntland forces have announced strategic gains in the Cal-Miskaad mountains, capturing strongholds of the group along with senior commanders who had been supervising operations.

The offensive, which lasted for 72 hours, left bases in Eelka Al-Baraka, Af-ka Dharimood, Eelasha Burti-Iise, and other villages along the Baallade valley captured by the forces. At least 15 ISIS fighters were killed during the battles, according to a statement from Puntland’s Anti-Terrorism Command.

“The army is still conducting operations to clear the last pockets of ISIS militants from the Baalade valley,” the statement read. “In the latest phase, we captured key positions including Eelka Al-Baraka and Af-ka Dharimood, and killed nearly 15 fighters.”

The fourth phase of the operation is being conducted on air, sea, and land, giving the terror group little room to organise itself. The latest operation marks the most significant gains since the operation was initiated in December 2024.

For years, ISIS militants have used the Cal-Miskaad mountains as their main hideouts, but it took the courage of the Puntland forces to flush them out, eliminating many fighters, including those from foreign nations.

While al-Shabaab remains the dominant insurgent force in the country, ISIS has carved out a smaller but persistent presence in parts of Bari, often clashing with Puntland forces. The operation is entering its final phase.

Brig. General Ahmed Abdullahi Sheikh, Former CDR Special Forces, says the forces are motivated as they enter the final phase of operations. He mourned with the families of the troops who had lost their lives while calling for resilience.

"The final stage of the offensive is the most challenging, a period where resilience is paramount. As is common in these situations, the final stretch is always the most difficult. Yet, these brave soldiers understand that retreat is not an option," he said.

"They know that achieving total victory requires unwavering resolve, and they are prepared to see this through to the end," he added.

GAROWE ONLINE