BOSASO, Somalia – In an ongoing effort to combat terrorism, Puntland security forces are heavily engaged in operations against Daesh militants in the mountainous terrain of Somalia’s Bari region, particularly around the Barak Ise area near Dharjale.
The officials reported on Saturday that the military actions, including ground and air assaults, are aimed at flushing out Daesh fighters entrenched in the rugged landscape.
According to Puntland officials, the operations have led to significant casualties among the Daesh ranks, with several militants confirmed killed in recent days. The Puntland forces have also made strategic gains by dismantling key positions that Daesh had fortified in the region. This includes the destruction of makeshift camps and the seizure of weaponry that had been in the hands of the militants.
The intensity of the conflict escalated last week when Daesh launched an attack on a Puntland army camp located in the Dharjale area. This assault not only resulted in casualties on both sides but also marked a turning point, prompting a more aggressive counteroffensive from Puntland forces. The attack was noted for its use of both suicide bombers and direct combat, showcasing Daesh’s attempt to reassert control or disrupt Puntland’s security operations.
The Bari region, with its complex and hilly topography, has long been a strategic area for terrorist groups due to its remoteness and the cover it provides. Daesh, which has been operating in Somalia since 2015, has found these mountains to be an advantageous hideout, complicating efforts by local forces to completely eradicate the group’s presence.
Puntland’s response to these threats has been multifaceted, involving not just military tactics but also intelligence operations to preempt attacks and disrupt Daesh’s logistical and recruitment networks. The regional government has pledged to continue its operations until Daesh is completely removed from its territory, highlighting the importance of this campaign for both local security and regional stability.
The international community has been watching these developments closely, with concerns about the spread of Daesh’s influence in Africa. While there is no direct foreign military involvement, Puntland has called for increased support in terms of intelligence-sharing and capacity building to enhance its counterterrorism efforts.
As the situation unfolds, local residents in nearby towns like Bosaso remain on high alert, with many expressing hope that these operations will lead to lasting peace and security in the region. However, the rugged nature of the terrain and the resilience of the Daesh fighters continue to pose significant challenges to Puntland’s security forces.
