Somali security forces reported killing multiple Islamic State (IS) fighters and seizing eight jihadist outposts during ongoing military operations in Puntland, a semi-autonomous region in northern Somalia.
Although the Islamic State’s presence in Somalia is relatively small compared to the Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab, experts have raised concerns about its increasing activity in the region. Last year, a United Nations counter-terrorism official warned of a rise in IS-affiliated attacks in Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Somalia.
Monday’s operation focused on the Cal Miskat mountains in the Bari region, according to Somali military officials.
“The security forces have captured eight IS military outposts, including a major stronghold in the Cal Miskat mountains. Several militants, including foreign fighters, were killed during the operation,” stated the Puntland army.
The army also reported neutralising approximately nine drones loaded with explosives, which IS had attempted to use against security forces during the clashes.
Ahmed Rage, a military commander in the area, confirmed ongoing intense fighting, noting that IS fighters had entrenched themselves in a cave within the mountain. However, he highlighted that the army was making steady progress and continuing to advance on key terrorist strongholds.
Islamic State operations in Somalia are reportedly led by Abdul Qadir Mumin, a native of Puntland.
“Abdul Qadir Mumin is the central figure and the most powerful leader of the global Islamic State network,” said Tore Hamming of the International Centre for the Study of Radicalisation (ICSR).
