Garowe, Somalia – Brigadier General Ahmed Abdi Ali, known as Qalyare, was killed Tuesday in a roadside bombing planted by ISIS militants in Puntland state. The attack occurred near the Al-Miskad Mountains in the Bari region, where Qalyare was leading operations against ISIS as part of Puntland’s intensified military campaign.
The general, a veteran of Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts, had been a key figure in Puntland’s push to dismantle ISIS’s presence in the northeast. His death comes amid ongoing ground operations and international air support, with the United States and United Arab Emirates conducting strikes against ISIS targets in recent weeks.
Puntland officials say the offensive has dealt significant blows to the group, destroying hideouts, killing militants, and capturing key territories. Despite these gains, ISIS remains active in remote areas and continues to carry out deadly attacks.
“This is a painful loss, but it will not stop our mission. Brig. Gen. Qalyare was instrumental in our progress,” said a Puntland military spokesperson.
Analysts warn that the bombing highlights ISIS’s ongoing threat and ability to strike high-value targets, even while under pressure.
A state funeral is being prepared for Qalyare, with national leaders expected to attend. The Somali Ministry of Defense called his death a “national loss,” vowing to continue the fight with renewed determination.
Security forces have launched a manhunt in the area of the bombing, and several suspects are reportedly in custody. Puntland authorities say the offensive will now accelerate, not retreat.