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At least five soldiers from the Puntland regional state forces were killed, and nearly 20 others were injured on Tuesday when two armored vehicles they were traveling in hit roadside bombs in the Al-Miskaat mountains. The explosions occurred as Puntland forces carried out a military operation in the mountainous terrain, where they have been engaged in an ongoing campaign against ISIS militants since last month.
Puntland Forces Suffer Casualties in Al-Miskaat Mountains
The roadside bombs were suspected to have been planted by ISIS fighters to slow the advance of government troops, who have been pushing deeper into the region in an effort to dismantle militant strongholds. The injured soldiers were immediately transported to medical facilities for treatment, while additional units were deployed to the area to secure the battleground.
Puntland Forces Regain Control of Strategic Dharin Area
Despite these casualties, Puntland’s military command reported a significant success in its latest operations. Government forces announced that they had fully regained control of Dharin, a strategic area in Togjacel within the Al-Miskaat mountain range. This location had been under ISIS control for several years and was believed to have served as a key operational base for the militant group.
Ongoing Campaign to Weaken ISIS Strongholds
According to a brief statement from Puntland’s military leadership, several ISIS fighters were killed in the offensive, though some managed to escape into the rugged terrain. The military did not specify the exact number of militants killed but confirmed that operations were ongoing to track down those who fled.
The current offensive is part of Puntland’s broader strategy to weaken ISIS’s grip on the region. In recent weeks, the regional administration has intensified its military campaign against the group, receiving support from U.S. airstrikes targeting key militant leaders and strongholds. On February 1, American forces conducted an airstrike that eliminated several high-ranking ISIS commanders, a move that significantly disrupted the group’s chain of command and boosted the effectiveness of Puntland’s ground operations.
Challenges Faced by Government Troops in Al-Miskaat Mountains
The Al-Miskaat mountains have long been a critical stronghold for ISIS militants operating in Somalia. The difficult terrain provides natural defenses, allowing the group to regroup and launch attacks against government forces. This has made the region a top priority for Puntland’s security forces, which are determined to eliminate the threat and restore stability.
Military analysts note that while Puntland has made progress in its counterterrorism efforts, ISIS remains a persistent threat in the region. The group’s fighters continue to use guerrilla tactics, including planting IEDs and launching ambushes, to challenge government advances. Additionally, the militants often retreat into caves and remote hideouts when faced with superior firepower, making it difficult to fully eradicate them.
ISIS Fighters in the Al-Miskaat Mountains
Local sources report that Puntland’s offensive has not only targeted ISIS but has also sought to disrupt smuggling networks and recruitment efforts that have sustained the militants. Intelligence sources suggest that ISIS has relied on informal supply chains to bring in weapons, ammunition, and reinforcements from other areas. By regaining control of Dharin and other key locations, Puntland forces are aiming to cut off these crucial supply lines.
Impact on Local Civilians and Humanitarian Concerns
Puntland officials have vowed to continue their offensive until all ISIS elements are removed from the region. The administration has called for increased support from international partners, emphasizing that a sustained military campaign is necessary to prevent the resurgence of ISIS in the Al-Miskaat mountains and beyond.
The fighting has also affected civilians in the area, with some families fleeing their homes to avoid getting caught in the crossfire. Humanitarian organizations have expressed concerns about the safety and well-being of displaced residents, urging authorities to provide necessary aid. Puntland’s government has assured the public that efforts are being made to assist those affected and restore normalcy in liberated areas.
Future Military Plans and Continued Operations
The coming weeks are expected to be critical as Puntland forces press forward with their operations. Military leaders have indicated that additional offensives are planned to flush out remaining ISIS fighters and dismantle their infrastructure. Security checkpoints have been reinforced in strategic areas to prevent militants from regrouping or launching retaliatory attacks.
Milestone in Battle Against Terrorism
For now, the recapture of Dharin marks a key milestone in the ongoing battle against terrorism in the region. Puntland authorities believe that continued military pressure, along with intelligence-sharing and external support, will be necessary to ensure that ISIS does not regain a foothold in the area.
As the offensive continues, Puntland security forces are maintaining a high state of alert. The regional administration remains committed to protecting its citizens and preventing ISIS from reestablishing control in the Al-Miskaat mountains or any other part of Puntland.