Bossaso (WDN)— Puntland’s war against terrorism has entered a historic chapter, as President Said Abdullahi Deni announced the near-completion of Operation Hillaac, a sweeping military offensive that has successfully dismantled ISIS strongholds in the Hillaac region.

Speaking on Saturday at a ceremony for the graduation of elite Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) units, President Deni proudly confirmed that ISIS militants have been decisively defeated in Calmiskaad. Building on this success, he unveiled the next phase: Operation Onkod (“Thunder”), a major new campaign aimed at crushing Al-Shabaab in the Calmadow mountains.

“The Hillaac operation in Calmiskaad is concluding triumphantly. The next phase is Operation Onkod in Calmadow,” President Deni declared, commending the courage and professionalism of Puntland’s security forces.

President Deni’s unwavering commitment and tactical leadership have earned Puntland widespread praise for achieving what no other Federal Member State (FMS) has accomplished: the effective defeat of ISIS through a self-driven, sustained military campaign. Under his command, Puntland has not only secured its own territory but also demonstrated that Somali-led solutions are the key to defeating extremism.

Looking ahead, President Deni made clear that Puntland’s mission will not end with its own security. Once terrorist elements are flushed from the Golis mountain range, Puntland forces are prepared to extend their campaign into southern Somalia to support nationwide efforts against terrorism.

“Puntland will not stop at securing its own territory,” President Deni emphasized. “We will take part in the broader task of cleansing Somalia of extremist threats.”

As Operation Onkod prepares to commence, Puntland stands as a shining example of resilience, determination, and effective leadership — a beacon of hope for a Somalia free from terrorism.

WardheerNews