Somalia's Govt urged to Back Puntland's Fight Against Al-Shabaab, ISIS

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Government of Somalia should consider adopting Puntland state's counter-terrorism strategy besides investing in the security structures established in the region, former president Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo said, terming the successes achieved in northern Somalia as 'impressive'.

Puntland severed ties with the Federal Government and has been walking a lonely journey in the fight against Al-Shabaab and ISIS militants, with limited funding from Mogadishu. Most areas in the state are secure compared to other federal states in the country.

In a statement, Farmajo commended the Puntland security forces for their effective campaign against militants, describing it as a vital move in the fight against terrorism within the country, which is still struggling with instability.

He called on the Federal Government to assist Puntland in its endeavors to eliminate Al-Shabaab and ISIS, underscoring the significant threat these groups represent to the nation's stability and sovereignty.

On Monday, Puntland defense forces with the help of local people launched an offensive against Al-Shabaab and ISIS in the mountainous areas of the Bari region, a few days after clan militia agreed to work closely with regional troops in the elimination of terrorists.

Sources in the Bari region confirmed to Garowe Online that the troops, traveling in battle wagons, have advanced nearly 200 kilometers toward the mountains in the Timirsh area, aiming to capture the final strongholds of the militant groups.

Last week, at least 10 militants allied to IS-Somalia were killed after attempting to raid a military base in Puntland, with some of the victims believed to be foreign nationals. The ISIS militants whose threat was flagged by America, are domiciled in eastern parts of the state.

The US says the group could still expand territory if remains unchecked — it has managed to accumulate resources and recruit foreign fighters who are keen to expand their bases outside the Bari region, with sophisticated weapons also being in supply.

President Said Abdullahi Deni has often encouraged local troops to remain resilient and steadfast in the fight against Al-Shabaab and IS-Somalia. Puntland remains relatively the most stable federal state in Somalia — with the economy showing signs of progressive growth.

GAROWE ONLINE