Garowe (Dawan Africa) - Puntland authorities confirmed on Monday that Abdulqadir Mumin, the leader of ISIS in Somalia, has escaped from the Al-Miskaad Mountains following sustained military operations that have driven the group from much of its former stronghold. Regional officials announced that 98% of the mountainous terrain—long considered a critical ISIS base—has now been brought under Puntland control.
General Mahamud Ahmed Faadhigo, spokesperson for Operation Hilaac, told local media that intelligence obtained from international security agencies indicates Mumin fled the area several weeks ago. However, the precise timing and circumstances of his escape remain unknown.
Although Mumin is believed to have left the region, his deputy and operations chief, Abdirahman Faahiye Isse Mahamud, is reportedly still hiding within the mountain range. General Faadhigo expressed confidence that Puntland security forces are close to apprehending him.
The news follows a major update from Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, who on Sunday announced the completion of Phase III of Operation Hilaac and the launch of Phase IV, which will target smaller pockets where ISIS remnants are believed to be hiding.
President Deni also revealed that Puntland forces encountered foreign fighters from Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas during recent clashes in Al-Miskaad. He described the insurgents as part of a transnational terror network, emphasizing that Puntland’s campaign had prevented what he called a “serious threat” to Somalia’s national security.
In a related development, Puntland’s security forces confirmed the arrest of a foreign ISIS fighter two days earlier. The individual, reportedly a white European, is believed to be the first such operative captured alive in the region in recent memory. He is currently in custody and under investigation.
As Operation Hilaac enters its final stages, Puntland officials say the priority now is neutralizing remaining cells and ensuring the long-term stabilization of territories reclaimed from ISIS. With the group’s leadership fractured and its territorial grip weakened, Puntland’s counter-terrorism campaign is approaching a potential turning point in Somalia’s broader fight against extremism.
