Airstrike Kills Three ISIS Militants in Puntland, AFRICOM Confirms

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU:  A coordinated Airstrike by U.S forces together with Somali National Army Friday targeted ISIS militants near Dhaardaar, Somalia, killing three militants, according to the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM).

According to AFRICOM, no civilian casualties occurred and that extensive measures were taken to avoid harming non-combatants.

“ISIS has conducted numerous attacks globally, including terrorist attacks in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, all while continuing to plot against U.S. homeland and personnel and interests around the world, as well as regional partners, and others globally,” AFRICOM said in a statement.

Adding, “Somalia remains central to the security environment in East Africa. U.S. Africa Command’s forces will continue training, advising, and equipping partner forces to degrade ISIS.”

The airstrike is part of ongoing efforts by Somali and international forces to combat extremist groups in the region. Recently, AFRICOM denied involvement in a May 26 operation in the Calmadow Mountains of Somalia’s Sanaag region. According to an official statement by the Somali government, the operation resulted in the deaths of more than 20 Al-Shabaab militants, including three key leaders.