IS Fighter Surrenders to Puntland Forces in Bari Region

Al-Miskat, Somalia:- (SahanPost):  A suspected Islamic State (IS) fighter, believed to be of Syrian nationality, surrendered himself today to Puntland security forces operating in the Al-Miskat Mountains of Bari region, northern Somalia.

According to Puntland military officials, the fighter turned himself in after reportedly struggling to survive in the harsh mountainous terrain. The man, whose identity has not yet been confirmed, told security personnel that hunger and thirst forced him to surrender.

The suspect also revealed that he had been accompanied by two other IS fighters who chose not to surrender, fearing capture by Puntland forces.

The surrender occurred amid ongoing military operations in the Il-Abbal area — a strategic water well site where Puntland troops launched an early morning offensive. Military sources said the operation targeted an area believed to be sheltering senior IS figures, including a commander identified as Abdirahman, reportedly the group’s second-in-command in the region.

Puntland forces confirmed they have taken full control of the area where the clash took place. No casualties have been reported so far.

The Puntland Security Forces (PSF) have been conducting counterterrorism operations against IS-affiliated militants in the rugged Bari region for more than a year. The campaign has resulted in the capture of several militant strongholds and the disruption of key IS logistical routes in the semi-desert terrain.

Officials say operations will continue until the group’s remaining hideouts are dismantled and the threat neutralized.

Sahan News Desk