Friday January 24, 2025
Garowe (HOL) — A Puntland army officer, Fu’aad Xanano, was seriously injured in a landmine explosion on Friday in the Ali-Miskat Mountains of the Bari region.
According to reports, the explosion occurred while Officer Xanano and another soldier were conducting operations in the area. The blast resulted in Officer Xanano losing one of his legs.
The Puntland forces, led by Officer Xanano, had been engaged in extensive military operations in the Al-Miskat Mountains, focusing on the Tursumale area.
Earlier on Friday, the troops successfully recaptured the area from ISIS fighters. However, retreating militants had reportedly planted numerous landmines to slow the advancing forces.
Military sources confirmed that Puntland forces have intensified efforts to detect and dismantle explosive devices in the region. Analysts suggest that ISIS group has increasingly employed guerrilla tactics such as planting landmines to inflict casualties and hinder military progress.
Despite these challenges, Puntland authorities reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating militant groups and securing the Bari region.