Puntland Forces Step Up Pressure on ISIS as Trapped Militants Face Surrender Deadline

Puntland’s defense forces have issued an urgent 72-hour ultimatum to Islamic State (ISIS) fighters trapped in the Baallade valley, urging them to surrender peacefully or face full military action. The militants, currently surrounded in cave hideouts within the valley, have been warned that this is their final chance to avoid bloodshed. The message, issued in multiple languages, called on the fighters to lay down their arms and contact Puntland security forces for safe surrender. “The Puntland government calls on ISIS fighters and anyone wishing to surrender to contact Puntland security forces within 72 hours. Your life is valuable,” read a statement from Puntland’s military command. Authorities pledged humane treatment for any fighters who surrender, including safe return to their families and communities. However, officials warned that failure to comply would lead to severe consequences. “There will be no escape. This is the final opportunity,” the statement said. The standoff comes as the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, concluded a separate two-week counterterrorism operation in the Puntland region targeting ISIS-Somalia. The joint strikes focused on leadership hideouts in the Golis Mountains, a remote area known to harbor high-ranking militants. (garowe online)