Bosaso (WDN)- Puntland on its recent operation Hillaac, has scored a decisive victory over ISIS in the Calmiskaad Mountains of Bari region, dismantling the group’s strongholds with crucial support from the US and UAE. Backed by training, logistics, and intelligence, Puntland forces have regained key territory, disrupted militant networks, and strengthened security along Somalia’s strategic northeastern coast.
On the occasion of these coordinated efforts, Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni today bid farewell to Colonel Ed Norris, outgoing Commander of US Special Operations for East Africa, whose term has concluded. President Deni also welcomed the incoming commander, Colonel Benander, who was part of the delegation received at the presidential offices.
In a farewell gesture, President Deni presented Colonel Norris with a traditional gift and expressed his gratitude to the United States for its support in the ongoing counterterrorism operations in Puntland’s Calmiskaad mountains. He voiced hope that Colonel Benander would continue strengthening security cooperation and counterterrorism efforts between Puntland and the US.
Colonel Norris thanked President Deni and the Puntland government for their close partnership in combating terrorism — a threat to both Somalia and the wider world. As a symbolic token, he handed over to Puntland the casing of a missile used by US forces to strike ISIS militants during operations in Alleelo-yar, an area within the Calmiskaad mountain range recently cleared of extremists.
The US praised Puntland’s commitment to eradicating both ISIS and Al-Shabaab from its territories. In recognition of their collaboration, Colonel Norris awarded medals to PMPF Director General Gen. Abdulrabi Abdisamad and other senior officers who played key roles in the joint counterterrorism campaign.
Also President Deni, accompanied by First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Mohamed Baari Shire, laid the foundation stone for the Calmiskaad Road, a 92-kilometer route set to connect Bosaso and Dhaadaar in the Bari region.
The groundbreaking ceremony drew senior government officials, traditional elders, the Bari regional administration, Bosaso district leaders, and the regional police command.
In his remarks, President Deni highlighted the strategic and economic significance of the new road. He noted that the project addresses a pressing need in the Dhaadaar area, recently cleared of ISIS militants, and emphasized that the road will serve both as a vital trade artery and a boost to regional security.
Construction is scheduled to begin tomorrow, with both the Puntland government and local communities contributing to the project. The initiative is part of broader infrastructure plans to better connect Calmiskaad with Puntland’s major urban centers.
WardheerNews