GAROWE, Puntland – Somalia’s Puntland regional security forces has on Tuesday morning successfully repelled an attack by ISIS militants in the Cal-Miskaat mountains of Bari region, local and sources officials confirmed to Arlaadi Media Network.
The attack, which took place in Haraaryo, a location within the Togjaceel area, involved multiple suicide bombers and heavy clashes.
According to Puntland security sources, the assault began before sunrise, with militants attempting to overrun Puntland military positions. However, security forces held their ground, forcing the attackers to retreat after sustaining heavy losses.
Puntland’s counterterrorism units later shared images online showing the dead bodies of several Daesh militants killed during the clash.
The number of casualties on both sides has not been independently verified, and Puntland authorities have not yet released an official statement on potential military losses.
The Cal-Miskaat mountains have long served as a hideout for ISIS-affiliated militants operating in Puntland, who use the rugged terrain as a base for launching attacks.
Puntland forces have carried out repeated offensives in the region to dismantle militant networks and neutralize their operational capacity.
This latest confrontation underscores the ongoing security challenges Puntland faces in its fight against terrorism, particularly from ISIS and al-Shabaab factions vying for control in the region.
Security analysts warn that despite setbacks, ISIS remains a persistent threat in Puntland’s mountainous areas. Authorities say security operations will continue in the coming days to track down any militants who fled during the attack.
