Baallade, Puntland – U.S. Special Operations Forces, together with Puntland Counter-Terrorism Forces, launched a direct raid in Baallade Valley. The action featured ground and aerial engagements against ISIS militants in the Al-Miskaad mountains.
US Africa Command reported that the operation targeting HabarBajuuke cave in Ballade Valley involved support from 10 helicopters. These initiated an assault on a major cave in the Ballade region of the Al-Miskaad mountain range.
Troops landed on the ground and completed the mission after clashes between U.S. personnel and IS-Somalia members. This represented the initial U.S. operation within Puntland. The raid resulted in the capture of several prisoners and the elimination of prominent IS-Somalia leaders.
Lasting several hours, the effort featured U.S. ground support for Puntland forces during a precisely coordinated attack on militant sites, according to officials.
“High-value ISIS targets in the Al-Miskaad area were hit during a combined air and ground operation by Puntland’s U.S. partners aiding the continuing effort,” stated the Puntland Counter-Terrorism Forces.
Early accounts show a substantial number of ISIS fighters killed and others detained in the raid. More precise information on the operation will be forthcoming, the military added in its statement.
The Al-Miskaad mountains have served as the focal point for ongoing military actions in Puntland, where numerous fighters have been killed over the past year. Many foreign terrorists have surrendered or been detained amid the intensified campaign.
US President Donald Trump revealed in February an early operation in the Al-Miskaad mountains and committed to collaborating with local officials against the group. The US maintains a strong alliance with Somalia in counter-terrorism efforts.
