Somalia: Puntland says ISIS fighters in Al-Miskad mountains under tightened blockade

GAROWE, Somalia — Puntland presidential state minister Abdifatah Mohamed Abdinur said authorities have imposed a “severe blockade” on the remaining Islamic State militants hiding in the rugged Al-Miskad mountains, aiming to cut off all supplies that could sustain the group.

Abdinur said the areas where ISIS fighters are believed to be sheltering have been fully encircled as part of a strategy to choke off access to food, fuel and other essential services.

“There is enormous pressure on the government and its forces,” he said. “One of the key measures is ensuring the militants are blockaded from all sides so nothing can reach them. They are surrounded.”

He acknowledged that a small number of ISIS fighters are still operating covertly in the lower parts of the Al-Miskad range, but expressed confidence that ongoing military operations would conclude “within a short period.”

The minister noted that Puntland’s harsh terrain has slowed the campaign, as the mountains are inaccessible to heavy vehicles. “You’ve seen forces moving on donkeys, camels, or even on foot because the area is extremely difficult to reach,” Abdinur said.

He added that Puntland forces have been compelled to adopt specialized tactics suitable for mountain warfare to ensure the group is fully dislodged from its remaining hideouts.

His remarks come a day after Puntland was expected to declare the end of Operation Hilaac, a yearlong campaign targeting ISIS militants. The announcement was delayed due to President Said Abdullahi Deni’s trip abroad.

Despite the progress claimed by Puntland officials, ISIS fighters remain active in the Baallade valley, about 20 kilometers west of Bosaso. Residents and analysts have warned the administration against prematurely declaring victory while militants continue to hold ground in Baallade and nearby areas.

GAROWE ONLINE