Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
Somalia security forces have reportedly killed several Islamic State (IS) fighters and seized control of eight jihadist outposts during an extensive military operation in the semi-autonomous Puntland region. The offensive, targeting IS strongholds, marks a significant step in Somalia’s ongoing efforts to eliminate extremist threats within its borders.
The military operation took place in the Cal Miskat mountains, a known IS hideout in the Bari region. Somali military officials confirmed that the security forces successfully captured eight IS-controlled outposts, including a significant base in the mountainous area. During the clash, several gunmen, including foreign fighters, were neutralized.
The Puntland army reported that the Islamic State attempted to retaliate using explosive-laden drones. However, Somali troops managed to shoot down nine of these drones before they could be deployed against the security forces. The military’s swift action prevented potential casualties and damage during the confrontation.
A Somali military commander, Ahmed Rage, provided further details, stating that heavy fighting continued as IS militants had taken defensive positions inside a cave complex within the Cal Miskat mountains. Rage emphasized that despite the challenging terrain, Somali forces were making steady progress toward eliminating the remaining IS presence in the area.
Islamic State’s presence in Somalia, while smaller compared to the Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab, remains a significant security concern. Experts have warned of IS expanding its influence in parts of East Africa, including Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The United Nations counter-terrorism officials have also raised alarms about increasing attacks linked to IS affiliates across the continent.
The Puntland region has long been a focal point in Somalia’s fight against terrorism due to its complex geography, which provides cover for extremist groups. The ongoing military operations aim to dismantle IS infrastructure in the region and prevent the group from using Puntland as a base for further operations across Somalia.
According to security analysts, the leader of IS operations in Somalia is Abdul Qadir Mumin, a native of Puntland. Mumin has played a critical role in expanding IS operations in the region and is regarded as a key figure in the global IS network. Tore Hamming, a terrorism expert from the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation (ICSR), described Mumin as “the most powerful IS figure in Somalia,” emphasizing his leadership role in connecting local militants with the global IS structure.
The Somali government has intensified its efforts to collaborate with international partners in the fight against extremist groups. The successful operation in Puntland underscores Somalia’s commitment to improving national security and preventing IS from gaining a stronger foothold in the region.
This latest offensive comes as Somalia continues to face multiple security challenges, including the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab. While IS has a smaller presence, its tactics and operational strategies continue to evolve, requiring constant vigilance from Somali forces and their allies.
Military officials have confirmed that operations in Puntland will continue until all IS strongholds are dismantled. The Somali government has called for continued regional cooperation and intelligence-sharing to combat extremist threats more effectively.