BOSASO (Kaab TV) – On Monday, Puntland counterterrorism forces took control of Sheebaab town, a significant ISIS stronghold deep in the Cal Miskaad mountains.
The town, which served as the group’s headquarters, has now fallen into Puntland’s hands. The government announced the completion of the second phase of the operation.
The ongoing offensive, supported by U.S. AFRICOM and the UAE through airstrikes, has targeted ISIS bases since December, killing dozens of militants.
During the latest operation, Puntland security forces uncovered an underground hideout where top ISIS leader Abdiqadir Mumin had been living.
The hideout, concealed beneath a tomato farm to evade aerial detection, contained a tunnel several meters deep, an oxygen tube, and solar-powered lighting.
Despite the major setback for ISIS, Abdiqadir Mumin and other top leaders managed to flee.
Puntland forces are continuing their pursuit of the militant group’s leadership.
Meanwhile, Puntland’s Police Chief, General Mumin Abdi, urged civilians to remain vigilant, warning that fleeing ISIS members might attempt to blend in with local communities.
“We want all Puntlanders to be vigilant as the ISIS terrorists fleeing from Cal Miskaad are trying to hide within the civilian population and might cause harm,” General Mumin Abdi said.
#VIDEO: ISIS-SOMALIA LEADER’S UNDERGROUND HOUSE EXPOSED
Puntland counter-terror forces uncovered an underground house where top ISIS emir Abdiqadir Mumin had been living.
The house had a tomato farm on top as a cover from airstrikes, with a tunnel several meters deep. It was… pic.twitter.com/iREtbtsT6y
— Kaab TV (@KaabTV) February 24, 2025