Thursday August 28, 2025
Garowe (HOL) — Puntland security forces killed three ISIS
fighters and seized weapons during a planned operation in the Calmiskaad
mountains on Tuesday, regional officials said.
The raid targeted militants hiding between Maragaale and
Kalidaad in the Togga Baallade area, where the group has attempted to establish
bases and corridors for launching attacks against Puntland forces, according to
security sources.
The offensive came a day after Puntland troops captured the
Idakacab well, north of Yucrin — a key hideout for militants in the region. The
latest operation is part of an intensive two-week campaign involving ground and
airstrikes in the Baallade stream area, supported by U.S. AFRICOM forces.
Despite the success, Puntland suffered heavy losses, with
more than 20 soldiers killed and nearly 50 wounded in recent fighting in
Calmiskaad, military officials confirmed.
ISIS-linked fighters have maintained a presence in the
rugged mountains of Puntland for years, posing an enduring security challenge
despite repeated offensives by local and international forces.