Puntland Forces Deal Major Blow to ISIS in Calmiskaad Mountains

 Puntland Forces Deal Major Blow to ISIS in Calmiskaad Mountains

In a significant victory against terrorism, Puntland security forces have killed more than ten ISIS militants in a large-scale military operation carried out on Saturday in the Calmiskaad Mountains of the Bari region, officials confirmed.

According to Puntland authorities, the operation took place around the Buticiso, Dharint, and Barakallah wells along the Baallade River—areas long used by ISIS as strategic bases for launching attacks. The forces successfully seized control of the Dharint and Buticiso wells, cutting off key supply routes for the group.

During the offensive, Puntland forces also captured a foreign ISIS fighter, further highlighting the group’s international connections. Security officials stated that the troops discovered the remains of several militants previously killed in U.S. airstrikes, indicating sustained international cooperation in counterterrorism efforts.

While more than ten ISIS fighters were eliminated, three Puntland soldiers lost their lives and six others were injured during the operation. Authorities emphasized that despite these losses, the mission was a decisive step toward restoring stability in the region.

The campaign against ISIS in the Calmiskaad Mountains has been ongoing for over a year. Puntland officials report that the group’s operational strength has been reduced by 95% over the past decade, thanks to continuous military pressure.

Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni recently revealed that ISIS had attempted to capture the coastal city of Bosaso in June 2025, but their plans were thwarted by intelligence-led operations. He added that remaining militants are now being hunted in the few areas they still occupy.

This latest operation marks another milestone in Puntland’s ongoing efforts to neutralize extremist threats and ensure peace and security for its people. The government reaffirmed its commitment to completely eradicate ISIS remnants from Somali soil, vowing that “those who threaten stability will find no safe haven in Puntland.”