BOSASO, Somalia — Puntland Defense Forces (PDF) carried out a significant military operation on Sunday that began in the early morning hours and concluded by evening, targeting ISIS strongholds in the Galkayo region.
The operation’s primary goal was to seize control of the areas from Qurac to Dhashaan, advancing towards the key ISIS bases of Dandamale and Curar, which are considered operational centers for the group’s leadership.
The ISIS militants fiercely resisted, especially in the Togga Jeceel area, but the Puntland forces pressed forward. According to preliminary reports, over 40 foreign fighters, brought in by the ISIS group, were killed during the clash. Footage from the scene shows captured weapons and equipment, with reports confirming the death of more than five foreign fighters who had carried out suicide attacks. Eight others reportedly injured themselves in attempts to evade capture.
A Puntland military spokesperson provided further details, stating, “A group of 12 militants specialized in long-range shooting and mine explosions were also eliminated. The harsh weather and a complete communication blackout due to damage to telephone networks in the Togga Jeceel area further hindered their operations.”
Meanwhile, airstrikes by UAE aircraft were reportedly carried out in support of the ground forces, with sources confirming that at least 15 ISIS militants were killed during air raids in the Togga Jeceel region, which is part of Cal-miskaad.
“The operation today marks another milestone in the fight against foreign terrorists in Somalia. This is the second major defeat for ISIS foreign fighters, with the first occurring in Dharjaale,” said Puntland military spokesperson Mahamud Mohamed Ahmed.
The operation represents a key success in Puntland’s ongoing efforts to eradicate ISIS and other extremist groups from the region, bringing renewed optimism to local forces and communities.
