Puntland authorities have confirmed that Abdul Qadir Mumin, the regional leader of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Somalia, has fled from the battlefield.
General Mohamud Ahmed Faadhigo, spokesperson for the ongoing Hillaac Operation, informed local media on Monday (26 Jawza) that intelligence reports indicate Mumin has escaped from the mountainous region of Calmiskaad. However, no further details regarding the timing or specific circumstances of his escape have been disclosed.
In recent months, the autonomous administration of Puntland has been conducting a large-scale military offensive, known as the Hillaac Operation, aimed at dismantling the ISIS presence in Somalia. Officials report that the campaign has achieved significant success in weakening the group’s strongholds.
On Sunday, the President of Puntland announced the completion of the operation’s third phase, stating that approximately 98% of the Calmiskaad mountain region has been cleared of ISIS militants. He further noted that the fourth phase will target areas where remaining ISIS fighters have taken refuge after fleeing from Calmiskaad and surrounding regions.