An airstrike in Somalia’s Puntland region has resulted in the deaths of more than 13 foreign Daesh fighters, authorities reported on Monday.
The operation, which lasted 24 hours, targeted terrorist hideouts in the Bari region, where the counterterrorism forces focused their efforts on dismantling Daesh strongholds.
“Over 13 foreign Daesh terrorists were killed during the airstrike in the Dhasaq area, part of the Calmiskaad mountain range,” Puntland’s counterterrorism unit confirmed.
The operation was part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts to curb the threat posed by ISIS operatives.
Security forces expanded their mission to include areas such as Hararyo and Toga-Jeceel, where they uncovered previously used bases by ISIS militants. This reveals the depth of their operation, which has disrupted terrorist activities in Puntland.
Although the specific country responsible for the airstrike remains undisclosed, the timing aligns with recent strikes carried out by US Africa Command (AFRICOM) in coordination with the Somali government.
AFRICOM had previously confirmed its airstrikes against ISIS operatives in Somalia, with multiple operatives killed.
For over a month, Somali security forces have intensified operations against Daesh, reclaiming significant territories from the terror group.