Minnesota Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Join ISIS

 

Minnesota Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Join ISIS

A 23-year-old Minnesota man has pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State (ISIS) after making two failed attempts to travel to Somalia to join the extremist group.

Abdisatar Ahmed Hassan entered the plea on Monday before U.S. District Judge Donovan Frank in St. Paul. He faces up to 15 years in prison, though a plea agreement could result in a shorter sentence. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

According to prosecutors, Hassan openly voiced support for ISIS online, praising violent attacks such as the Jan. 1 truck assault on Bourbon Street in New Orleans that killed 14 people. Court records show that in December, Hassan tried to fly from Minnesota to Somalia twice but was stopped by authorities each time. He was later spotted driving with an ISIS flag before his arrest in February.

“Hassan flew the ISIS flag, venerated attacks on the homeland, and wanted to kill Americans,” Acting U.S. Attorney Joe Thompson said. “We are not taking chances. We will not let Minnesota become a safe haven for terrorists.”

The FBI launched its investigation after receiving a tip about a social media user supporting ISIS and al-Shabab. Hassan, a naturalized U.S. citizen, remains in custody.

This case highlights an ongoing challenge for Minnesota, where several young men have previously attempted to join ISIS. In 2016, nine were sentenced on conspiracy charges, and in 2024, another Minnesotan who fought with ISIS in Iraq was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Somalia Launches National Business and Economic Survey

Somalia Launches National Business and Economic Survey

The National Bureau of Statistics has launched Somalia’s annual National Business and Economic Survey, a nationwide initiative aimed at gathering essential data to support development planning, economic policy, and investment growth.

The survey, which started this week, will monitor business activity across all sectors to provide accurate measures of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and guide government strategies.

Director General Dr. Abdisalan Abdirahman Mohamed emphasized that the information collected will reflect the true state of Somalia’s economy and benefit businesses, policymakers, and the public. “Your participation is crucial to ensuring the accuracy of national economic statistics,” his office said in a statement to businesses nationwide.

Under the 2020 Statistics Law, all private and government-owned businesses are legally required to provide the requested data. Officials assured the public that all information gathered will remain confidential and used solely for statistical purposes.

The bureau urged companies, business centers, and public institutions to cooperate with its field teams, while calling on the Somalia Chamber of Commerce and the Office of the Prime Minister to support the initiative.

Described by officials as a vital national effort, the survey will help shape Somalia’s economic future, attract domestic and foreign investment, and strengthen opportunities for business growth across the country.

 

Liverpool Edge Southampton to Keep EFL Cup Hopes Alive

Liverpool Edge Southampton to Keep EFL Cup Hopes Alive

Liverpool were not at their best, but they still managed to continue their winning run with a narrow 2-1 victory over Southampton in the EFL Cup third round at Anfield.

Alexander Isak, making his first start since joining Liverpool from Newcastle, opened the scoring in the first half after capitalizing on a mistake by Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy. Federico Chiesa, who was one of the standout performers of the night, provided the assist.

Southampton fought bravely and got their deserved equalizer through Shea Charles after a corner caused confusion in Liverpool’s defense. The Saints even came close earlier when Adam Armstrong struck the crossbar, showing that they were not there just to make up the numbers.

The winning moment came late in the 85th minute, when Chiesa once again delivered with a perfectly timed pass for Hugo Ekitike, who calmly slotted home. His joy turned costly, though, as removing his shirt during the celebration earned him a second yellow card, leaving Liverpool to finish the game with 10 men.

Despite the drama, Liverpool’s new attacking trio of Isak, Ekitike, and Chiesa showed glimpses of why the club invested heavily in them. Southampton, meanwhile, were left disappointed but can take pride in their spirited performance.

With this win, Liverpool extend their impressive record against Southampton at Anfield and move into the next round of the EFL Cup, where Arne Slot will hope his reshuffled side can show more consistency.

 

President Hassan Sheikh Pledges Elections Will Be Held on Time

President Hassan Sheikh Pledges Elections Will Be Held on Time

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has reaffirmed that he will not extend his mandate beyond its constitutional timeline and pledged that national elections will be held as scheduled. In an interview with the BBC, the president emphasized that his term, which began on May 15, 2022, will end exactly four years later, on May 15, 2026.

“I want elections to take place within this timeframe, and I am ready to hand over power peacefully if I lose,” he said, underlining his commitment to Somalia’s democratic process.

The president acknowledged political disputes between the federal government and some member states but expressed optimism that tensions would ease. He noted that concessions have been made to strengthen cooperation and reiterated his government’s readiness to bring Puntland and Jubbaland to the negotiating table.

Central to his presidency, Mohamud said, is steering Somalia toward a one-person, one-vote electoral system and completing the country’s provisional constitution—two milestones seen as crucial for building strong state institutions and ensuring stability.

 

TIKA’s Lifeline for Somalia: Education, Special Needs Support & University Labs

TIKA’s Lifeline for Somalia: Education, Special Needs Support & University Labs

The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) is leaving a remarkable footprint in Somalia’s development, supporting education, innovation, and social inclusion. Recent initiatives include a Turkish language classroom for orphans, a modern laboratory at Mogadishu University, and vital support for the country’s only center for children with developmental disorders.

Teacher Ilyas Abdulkadir Mohamed, who studied in Türkiye, now teaches at the Şehit Omer Halisdemir classroom, helping children of fallen security personnel receive equal opportunities in education. He describes his work as a moral duty to his homeland and calls on Turkish businesses to invest in Somalia’s untapped resources.

Meanwhile, the Mustaqbal Center for Children with Special Needs stands as the sole institution in Somalia dedicated to children with autism, Down syndrome, and other developmental conditions. Its director praised TIKA for providing essential equipment and infrastructure.

At Mogadishu University, TIKA established a state-of-the-art laboratory, offering students hands-on experience while also serving local companies in construction and engineering fields.

Together, these initiatives highlight TIKA’s central role in nurturing Somalia’s brighter future through education, innovation, and inclusion.

 

Ramla Ali Honored in Mogadishu for Historic Achievements

Ramla Ali Honored in Mogadishu for Historic Achievements

Somali international boxing star Ramla Said Ahmed Ali, known globally as Ramla Ali, has been awarded the Medal of Honor by Banadir Governor and Mogadishu Mayor Hassan Mohamed Hussein Muungaab. The recognition celebrates her trailblazing journey as Somalia’s first Olympic boxer and her role in elevating the nation’s name on the world stage.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had also recently decorated Ali for her remarkable impact, praising her as a role model for Somali women and youth. At the ceremony, Mayor Muungaab called her “an inspiration to Somali youth” and promised to strengthen sports programs across the country.

Born in Mogadishu in 1989 and forced to flee the civil war as a child, Ali’s journey has been one of resilience and determination. From secretly training in London to competing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and turning professional in 2020, she has built a strong record while breaking barriers for Somali women in sport.

Her story has made her not only a national icon but also a global symbol of hope and perseverance.

 

Tragic Incident in Mogadishu Highlights Urgent Need for Accountability in Security Forces

Tragic Incident in Mogadishu Highlights Urgent Need for Accountability in Security Forces

A tragic incident unfolded in Mogadishu’s Kaaraan district on Saturday afternoon when a soldier from the Somali Federal Government forces shot and killed a driver, identified as Carab Ali, during a dispute at a security checkpoint.

According to eyewitnesses and reports, the soldier attempted to demand extra money from the driver, who operated a vehicle type locally known as Leyla Calaawi. The confrontation escalated, resulting in the fatal shooting. The soldier immediately fled the scene, while security forces arrived shortly afterward to begin investigations and pursue the suspect.

Victim and Wider Context

The late Carab Ali was well-known among drivers who travel the routes between Mogadishu and Somalia’s central regions. His death has drawn widespread attention, not only because of the loss of an innocent life but also due to the recurring complaints by transport drivers across the country. Many drivers have long voiced concerns about harassment, extortion, and mistreatment at the hands of individuals in military uniform manning checkpoints.

This tragic killing underscores a deeper problem: the misuse of authority by some members of the security forces, who instead of protecting civilians, exploit their position for personal gain. In many cases, these practices have included unlawful taxation, physical abuse, and even shootings.

Public Outcry and Need for Reform

The murder of Carab Ali comes at a time when public frustration with checkpoint abuses is already high. Drivers and citizens alike have called for stronger oversight and accountability within the armed forces to prevent such incidents from happening again.

Civil society organizations and community leaders are urging the government to take swift measures to ensure that justice is served. Bringing the perpetrator to justice will be critical not only for the family of the victim but also for restoring trust between the public and the security sector.

The Path Forward

This incident is a stark reminder of the urgent reforms needed in Somalia’s security institutions. Building discipline, accountability, and professionalism within the armed forces is essential for strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that the uniform remains a symbol of protection, not fear.

The Somali people deserve a security sector that safeguards their rights and lives, not one that undermines them. Justice for Carab Ali must be the first step in a broader commitment to protect citizens from abuse and restore confidence in the country’s security institutions.

 

Somali Army Leaders Strengthen International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation

Somali Army Leaders Strengthen International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation

Somali National Army (SNA) Commander Gen. Odowaa Yusuf Rageh held high-level discussions on Saturday with Gen. Abdirahman Mohamed Tuuryare, Somalia’s Representative to the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) and former NISA Director, at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Mogadishu.

The talks centered on strengthening the Somali National Army’s role in international counter-terrorism efforts and enhancing collaboration with global partners to ensure stability in Somalia and across the Horn of Africa.

Gen. Tuuryare briefed the Army Chief on IMCTC’s ongoing operations, which include countering extremist ideology and disrupting terrorist financing networks. He emphasized the importance of Somalia’s engagement in these efforts, especially given the persistent threat posed by foreign jihadists who continue to travel to Somalia to join Al-Shabaab and ISIS.

Over recent years, the Somali National Armed Forces (SNAF), in cooperation with international partners, have successfully killed and captured dozens of foreign fighters during operations in Puntland and central and southern Somalia. These joint efforts demonstrate Somalia’s growing role as a key partner in global counter-terrorism.

The meeting between Gen. Odowaa and Gen. Tuuryare underscores Somalia’s commitment to not only defeating terrorism within its borders but also contributing to the wider international fight against extremist networks.

 

Coordinated Airstrikes Deal Heavy Blow to Al-Shabaab in South Somalia

Coordinated Airstrikes Deal Heavy Blow to Al-Shabaab in South Somalia

Intelligence sources confirmed on Sunday that a series of coordinated airstrikes struck Al-Shabaab strongholds in southern Somalia, killing several senior leaders and injuring others. The operations, four in total, mark a significant escalation in counter-terrorism efforts aimed at dismantling the extremist group’s leadership and operational capacity.

Multiple Strikes in Key Regions

The strikes targeted Al-Shabaab bases in Middle Juba, Lower Shabelle, and Bay regions. Specific areas hit included Bu’ale, Kunya-Barrow, Sablaale, and Bulo-Fulay. Security officials reported that the operations were part of a broader campaign to weaken the group’s command structure.

Eliminating Foreign Trainers in Bu’ale

One of the most significant strikes occurred near Bu’ale in the village of Sariraha, where foreign trainers working with Al-Shabaab were killed. Among the confirmed dead were:

• Abu Fahd al-Sudani (Sudan)

• Abu Salhan (Pakistan)

• Abu Jaafar (Morocco)

• Abu Malik (unconfirmed nationality)

“These individuals played a critical role in building Al-Shabaab’s training networks and external operations,” an intelligence officer noted.

Another strike in Kunya-Barrow destroyed equipment reportedly supplied to Al-Shabaab by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. While the nature of the equipment has not been publicly disclosed, the incident highlights the growing regional cooperation between extremist organizations.

Leadership Meeting Hit in Sablaale

In Sablaale, Lower Shabelle, an airstrike targeted a house where senior Al-Shabaab leaders were holding a meeting. Reports indicate the gathering was meant to plan upcoming attacks against Somali government forces and international partners.

Disruption in Bulo-Fulay

The fourth strike hit Bulo-Fulay in Bay region, where intelligence indicated the presence of additional Al-Shabaab leaders. Officials confirmed the attack disrupted a key command hub, though casualty details remain unclear.

A Broader Counter-Terrorism Effort

While no official statement has yet been released by the Somali federal government or its international allies, observers view these strikes as part of ongoing joint counter-terrorism operations. These efforts involve Somali security forces, African Union peacekeepers under AUSSOM, and UN-backed security initiatives.

Escalation in the Fight Against Al-Shabaab

The coordinated air campaign underscores renewed momentum in the fight to dismantle Al-Shabaab’s leadership and operational networks. Analysts believe these operations represent a major step toward neutralizing the group’s influence across Somalia and the wider Horn of Africa.

 

Somalia’s Push for New Banknotes: A Step Toward Economic Stability

 

Somalia’s Push for New Banknotes: A Step Toward Economic Stability

Somalia’s federal government has announced that it needs an additional $40 million to launch new Somali shilling banknotes. Officials say the project is critical to restoring stability in the economy and reducing the widespread problem of counterfeit money.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre explained that the full cost of the initiative is around $70 million. So far, Somalia has secured $30 million in external support, though the source of the funds has not been disclosed. Talks are ongoing with Kuwait to help cover the shortfall without taking on new loans.

The plan to print new currency is not new. Back in 2018, Somalia worked with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to design a two-phase reform program. The first phase focused on replacing old fake notes with smaller denominations. The IMF has repeatedly called the currency reform a “national priority,” stressing its importance for protecting people from fraud and restoring confidence in the shilling.

The Central Bank of Somalia is leading the project, supported by new tools such as the Somalia Instant Payment System (SIPS) and a national QR code, SOMQR, to promote safe and modern transactions.

This reform comes after Somalia achieved major debt relief in 2023, reducing its debt from 64% of GDP in 2018 to less than 6% by the end of 2023. With this progress, officials believe the country now has the financial space to modernize its currency system without relying heavily on new debt.

Challenges remain, especially the need to coordinate with all federal member states to ensure nationwide acceptance of the new currency. However, the government insists this step is vital to strengthen institutions, restore public trust, and encourage future investment.

For Somalia, replacing counterfeit notes with a secure and modern currency is more than just financial reform — it is a step toward long-term economic stability and sovereignty.

Somalia Struggles to Fund Printing of New Currency

Somalia Struggles to Fund Printing of New Currency

Mogadishu – Somalia’s federal government is facing major challenges in its efforts to print a new national currency, according to Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre.

For years, Somalia has relied heavily on the old 1,000-shilling banknote, which has become increasingly inadequate for modern economic needs. The Prime Minister stressed that the introduction of new currency is now urgent, but financial constraints continue to stall progress.

Barre revealed that an estimated $70 million is required to complete the printing of the new currency. So far, only $30 million has been secured through unspecified foreign aid, leaving a critical shortfall of $40 million. The lack of transparency over funding sources has also raised questions about the level of international support for Somalia’s economic recovery.

To bridge the gap, the Somali government has entered negotiations with the government of Kuwait, with hopes that assistance will be provided without adding to Somalia’s debt burden.

These remarks highlight the broader economic difficulties facing Somalia, where inflation and currency devaluation have placed severe pressure on daily transactions. Continued dependence on outdated banknotes has slowed economic growth and hampered efforts to stabilize the nation’s fragile financial system.

 

Somali Army Displays Victory Over Al-Shabaab in El-Dheer

 

Somali Army Displays Victory Over Al-Shabaab in El-Dheer

The Somali National Army (SNA) has showcased a significant victory against Al-Shabaab militants following a fierce battle in El-Dheer district, Galgaduud region.

On Saturday afternoon, Somali troops presented captured weapons and detained fighters to the public, a symbolic display of their growing strength in the fight against terrorism. Two militants were paraded before the media in handcuffs, with military officials emphasizing that they would face justice in accordance with the law through the Military Court.

Senior commanders attended the event, including Colonel Mohamed Dhagaweyne, commander of the SNA’s 21st Division, and Saahid Jama Farah Jareere, commander of the 1st Division of the elite Gorgor Commandos. Their presence underscored the importance of the operation and the resilience of Somalia’s security forces.

A moment of pride came when officers honored a soldier who successfully intercepted a vehicle laden with explosives intended for an Al-Shabaab assault on the district. The bravery of this soldier prevented what could have been a devastating attack, earning him a public cash reward in recognition of his courage.

Authorities confirmed that the death toll among Al-Shabaab fighters has now reached 71, after additional bodies of the attackers were discovered. The battle, which raged for several hours, demonstrated both the intensity of the clash and the determination of Somali forces to defend their territory.

The Ministry of Defence reported that six Somali soldiers were killed and 14 others wounded during the confrontation—a heavy but honorable sacrifice in the fight to secure Somalia’s future.

This latest success in El-Dheer highlights the Somali Army’s steady progress against extremist groups. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, the nation’s forces continue to push forward, determined to restore peace, stability, and security across Somalia.

Somalia’s Army: A Symbol of Resilience and Hope

 Somalia’s Army: A Symbol of Resilience and Hope

Somalia’s National Army stands today as a beacon of courage and resilience in the fight against terrorism. Every day, brave Somali soldiers achieve victories on the ground, protecting communities and securing a brighter future for their nation.

These daily triumphs are not only a source of hope for the Somali people, but they also serve as a powerful example to Africa and the wider world. Somalia’s army proves that with determination, discipline, and unity, terrorism can be defeated.

The people of Somalia stand firmly behind their army. From every city and village, the voices of support echo with pride and gratitude for those who risk their lives to safeguard the country’s freedom.

For Africa, Somalia’s success is a model of strength against extremism, demonstrating that homegrown forces, supported by their communities, can lead the charge in securing peace. For the West, the Somali army represents a trusted partner in the global mission to combat terrorism.

Together, the army and the Somali people are rewriting the story of Somalia — one of resilience, unity, and victory.

Meta and TikTok Win Legal Challenge Against EU Over Tech Fees

 

Meta and TikTok Win Legal Challenge Against EU Over Tech Fees

Tech giants Meta and TikTok have won a major legal victory against the European Union after the EU General Court ruled that the method used to calculate supervisory fees under the Digital Services Act (DSA) was legally flawed.

The court found that the fees — set at 0.05% of global net income and linked to the number of monthly active users — were based on “implementing decisions” rather than a proper delegated act, as required by EU law. As a result, regulators now have 12 months to fix the legal basis for the methodology.

The ruling does not require the EU to refund fees collected in 2023, but it highlights the growing pushback from Big Tech against Europe’s strict digital governance framework.

Other major firms, including Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Snapchat, Pinterest, and X (formerly Twitter), have also filed or are preparing similar legal challenges.

The European Commission stressed that the judgment is a procedural correction rather than a fundamental defeat, insisting that the principles and amounts of the fees remain valid.

This case underscores the ongoing tension between European regulators and global tech companies as the EU tries to enforce stronger accountability under the DSA.

UK Plans to Raise or Scrap £100 Contactless Card Payment Limit

UK Plans to Raise or Scrap £100 Contactless Card Payment Limit

 

The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has proposed new rules that could allow banks and payment providers to raise – or even remove – the current £100 limit on contactless card payments. This means that larger purchases, such as a weekly supermarket shop or a family dinner, could be made with just a tap, without the need to enter a PIN.

When contactless was first introduced in 2007, the limit was £10. Over the years, it gradually increased, reaching £100 in 2021. If approved, the new plan could take effect early next year.

While the move reflects changing payment habits and aims to save time, reduce “payment friction,” and align cards with digital wallets (which already have no limits), concerns over fraud and theft remain. The FCA acknowledged that raising limits could increase fraud losses but stressed that banks would bear the burden, and consumers would still be refunded if their cards were misused.

Opinions are divided. Younger people, especially those aged 16–24, often rely on smartphones with fingerprint or facial recognition security, making unlimited payments routine. Others, however, see the £100 cap as a useful safeguard, even a budgeting reminder.

The FCA said any changes would be implemented cautiously and allow customers to set their own contactless limits if they prefer. It emphasized that the move also responds to the UK government’s push to stimulate economic growth by cutting unnecessary restrictions.

Countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand already let the industry set its own limits, and the UK could soon follow suit.

Hashim Abdi: A 20-Year-Old Somali Making History in Norway’s Parliament

Hashim Abdi: A 20-Year-Old Somali Making History in Norway’s Parliament

 

On election night in Fredrikstad, 20-year-old Hashim Abdi broke down in tears as results flashed on TV screens. He immediately called his mother—the only parent he has left—telling her she was the first person he thought of when it became clear he had won a seat in Norway’s parliament.

“My parents came to Norway with nothing but hope. Mom is the only parent I have left, and she deserves everything in the world,” Abdi said.

His tears reflected the weight of his journey. The son of Somali refugees, raised in a working-class neighborhood, Abdi is now among the youngest lawmakers in the Storting, Norway’s national legislature. His campaign focused on issues close to his own life: better schools, more opportunities for young people, and addressing poverty in Østfold, a county marked by rising inequality.

“It’s completely insane. It’s the story of Norway, that a boy from Trara can go from a small neighborhood to the corridors of power,” he remarked.

Abdi now joins Marian Abdi Hussein, a Socialist Left Party politician re-elected from Oslo. Hussein, the first African-born lawmaker to hold a permanent seat in parliament in 2021, has become a prominent national figure, especially on women’s rights and health policy. In 2023, she was elected deputy leader of her party.

Together, Hussein and Abdi symbolize both continuity and change for Somali Norwegians. Hussein broke barriers three years ago; Abdi represents a younger generation stepping into politics with fresh energy and determination.

Their victories also mirror broader shifts in Norwegian society. Labour secured around 30% of the vote in Østfold, anchoring Abdi’s win despite local gains by the Progress Party. Nationally, the results keep Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in office, relying on a left-leaning bloc to govern.

But beyond statistics, Abdi’s personal story resonates deeply in Norway’s Somali community. His late father, Mohodin, once drove a taxi and served on Fredrikstad’s city council. He instilled in his son a belief in civic duty and justice. From joining the Labour youth wing at 14 to climbing steadily through local politics, Hashim Abdi’s rise is a testament to perseverance, representation, and the changing face of Norway.

Somali President Calls for Scaled-Up Climate Finance at Africa Climate Summit

Somali President Calls for Scaled-Up Climate Finance at Africa Climate Summit

At the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) in Addis Ababa, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud urged the international community to significantly increase climate finance “at an adequate scale and on appropriate terms,” stressing that Africa’s development and global decarbonization are inseparable.

The president highlighted Somalia’s acute vulnerability to climate change despite contributing almost nothing to global emissions. He pointed to the devastating 2021–2023 drought, which affected 7.8 million people — nearly half of Somalia’s population — leading to widespread food insecurity, livelihood loss, and mass displacement.

President Mohamud also showcased Somalia’s recent climate milestones, including the Green Somalia Initiative to plant 10 million trees, a $10 million pledge to the Great Green Wall, the establishment of a National Climate Fund, and a $100 million Green Climate Fund partnership launched in 2024. Somalia also became the first East African country to submit its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 3.0.

“The climate crisis is exacting a severe toll on the Somali people,” he said, calling on global partners to operationalize loss and damage mechanisms and turn pledges into “predictable, timely disbursements that reach frontline countries like Somalia directly.”

The president was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, Environment Minister Lt. Gen. Bashir Mohamed Jama, Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali (Dhaay), Finance Minister Bihi Iman Egeh, and Somalia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia Abdullahi Warfa. Officials described the presence as a demonstration of Somalia’s “united front” on climate leadership.

 

Puntland Security Forces Capture Two Suspected ISIS Members in Bosaso

 Puntland Security Forces Capture Two Suspected ISIS Members in Bosaso

Puntland security forces have successfully arrested two men suspected of being members of the ISIS terrorist group as they attempted to secretly enter the port city of Bosaso, Bari region.

According to authorities, both men are Ethiopian nationals. One of them spoke limited Somali and claimed that they had fled from ISIS. When captured, the two carried only dry food and a bottle of water, suggesting they were prepared for a long journey.

Officials noted that many ISIS fighters operating in Puntland are originally from Ethiopia. Some initially entered the region under the guise of refugees before later joining ISIS.

The capture of these two suspects comes as Puntland security forces continue regular operations in the Calmiskaad mountains, where ISIS militants are known to hide in caves near Bosaso.

Police recently warned that some fleeing ISIS fighters may attempt to blend in with local communities to escape capture. Citizens in Bosaso and surrounding areas have been urged to report immediately to the authorities if they see or hear of any suspicious individuals connected to ISIS.

This latest arrest highlights Puntland’s ongoing determination to disrupt terrorist activities in the region and protect its people from infiltration attempts.

Somali Footballer Sakariya Hassan Living His Dream With National Team

 

Somali Footballer Sakariya Hassan Living His Dream With National Team

Sakariya Abdi Hassan, known as Sak, was playing non-league football in England when he received a life-changing phone call: an invitation to join Somalia’s national team.

The 23-year-old, who grew up in England after moving from the Netherlands at age seven, had played for academies including Leyton Orient, QPR and Tottenham. He currently plays for Wealdstone in the National League and also featured in the Baller League, a six-a-side competition created by YouTuber KSI.

Since his debut for the Ocean Stars, Hassan has made 10 appearances and scored twice. Somalia is currently ranked 200th in the world, the third lowest in Africa, and hasn’t won a game in six years. Despite this, Sak remains positive.

“We’re improving,” he said. “Ten years ago we were losing 5-0, 6-0. Now we’re competing better, and we’re playing more regularly.”

Somalia’s civil war has prevented the team from playing at home since 1986. Matches are hosted in Djibouti and other countries, but Sak dreams of one day playing in front of Somali fans in Mogadishu.

He also hopes the Ocean Stars can qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations within the next decade and inspire young Somali players worldwide.

“Football is massive in Somalia,” he said. “Boys and girls all grow up playing it, and the support from the Somali community in the UK and beyond is incredible.”

Local Somali fans in England see Sak as a role model and believe his success will encourage more of the diaspora to represent Somalia in the future.

For now, Hassan and the Ocean Stars are focused on World Cup qualifiers, hoping to build on small steps and turn draws into historic wins.