Puntland forces dislodge ISIS from strategic bases, Winning Big in Hilaac Operation

BOSASO, Somalia - Even with limited resources, Puntland forces soldiered on further into deep caves of the Cal-Miskaad mountains, staging one of the finest operations in recent months within the country as the fight against ISIS militants gathered momentum.

Over the weekend, the forces reached Curaar, marking the first time they have seized one of the most significant strongholds previously held by ISIS terrorists, a group that is determined to establish a strong base in the Horn of Africa nation.

This, military officials said, is the largest ISIS defense base, besides the previously liberated Dhasan to Mirale in Calmiskaad mountains. The team has been working closely with the US Africa Command and the United Arab Emirates troops.

Upon the seizure of the base, the forces discovered vehicles used by the militants that were destroyed in airstrikes, and motorcycles they used, along with the bodies of the terrorist group are scattered across the site, officials say.

One of the soldiers from Puntland's special forces, stationed on the front lines, was quoted saying that they are actively pursuing the remnants of the Islamic State following their defeat in the ongoing "Hilaac" operation.

The unidentified soldier vowed that the forces would continue fighting until every last member of the group was eliminated. Significant strides have been made in the fight against ISIS, with many foreign fighters either getting killed or surrendering.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who has been uncooperative since the war started, changed his tune and has since pledged to join the state in pursuing ISIS militants. However, it is not clear if he would order the deployment of elite troops to the state.

On Saturday, the US Africa Command confirmed airstrikes within the Cal-Miskaad mountains, targeting the ISIS militants. Several fighters have died in the process but there are no civilian casualties — the mountainous region is not occupied by people.

GAROWE ONLINE