GAROWE (Kaab TV) – General Abdi Ali Qarjab (Qalyare), who served as the commander of Puntland’s Second Battalion, was buried in Garowe, the capital of Puntland, on Tuesday after being killed in a roadside bomb explosion in the Dhasaan area of Cal Miskaad.
The general was killed when a landmine planted by the terrorist group ISIS-Somalia detonated while he was leading an operation in the Dhasaan area.
One of his bodyguards was also killed in the blast.
General Qalyare was among the key military leaders of Puntland’s ongoing offensive against ISIS.
He commanded a special battalion known as Duufaan (Storm).
The military campaign, which has lasted nearly a year, has seen Puntland forces successfully liberate large areas from ISIS.
General Qalyare played a central role in leading the fight, and his death highlights the dangers of the war against extremist groups that continue to hide in different areas.
His funeral was attended by senior military officials, Puntland authorities, and members of the public, including his family.
Puntland’s top leadership attended the funeral service as religious men conducted the prayer service before the body was laid to rest.
President Said Abdullahi Deni praised the late general as a dedicated officer who spent much of his life defending his people and his land, actively and bravely participating in every stage of Puntland’s defense, including the ongoing Cal Miskaad operation.
He prayed for Allah’s mercy upon him and strength for his family and the Somali people.
Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor also attended the funeral prayer.
In a statement, the Puntland Presidency announced that a public square in Garowe will be named after the late General Qalyare, in honor of his sacrifice and service to the people of Puntland and Somalia at large.
General Qalyare has been described as a fearless officer who, throughout his career, played a vital role in defending Puntland and the Somali nation.