GAROWE, Somalia – The Puntland State Police Command has issued a public alert, urging residents across the northeastern Somali region to remain vigilant and report suspected members of the Islamic State (ISIS) who may be fleeing recent military offensives.
In an official statement released on Saturday, Puntland police warned that fleeing militants might attempt to hide among civilians following significant battlefield losses inflicted by state security forces in the Cal Miskaad mountains.
“As part of our ongoing legitimate war against terrorist groups, there is a possibility that defeated elements may seek refuge among the population,” the statement said. “We urge all citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious activity.”
Authorities encouraged residents to immediately contact Puntland police via the emergency hotline 999 or through WhatsApp at 905 811 111, both of which are available 24/7.
The alert comes as Puntland prepares to launch a new phase of its counter-terrorism campaign, dubbed Operation Onkod, targeting ISIS strongholds in the Cal Madow mountains of the Sanaag region, following progress made in clearing the Cal Miskaad range.
Puntland, an autonomous state in northeastern Somalia, has maintained a firm stance against militant groups and has led several military operations aimed at uprooting ISIS and Al-Shabaab militants from remote mountainous areas.
