GAROWE, Somalia — A roadside bomb killed three Puntland soldiers, including a senior officer, during military operations targeting ISIS-linked militants in northeastern Somalia.
The explosion struck an ambulance transporting soldiers near Markadaan, close to Turmusaale — an area recently retaken from ISIS during ongoing operations in the Cal Miskaad Mountains.
Reliable sources confirmed three fatalities and several injuries after the vehicle hit a landmine planted beside the road, targeting security forces patrolling the area.
No group claimed responsibility, but officials suspect ISIS, which previously carried out similar deadly attacks in the same region.
The group still remains active using ambush tactics and hiding in rugged terrain to evade Puntland forces and aerial surveillance.
Security officials alleged that some local residents are aiding the militants. They warned of tough action against collaborators and those supporting terrorist groups.
This attack comes as Puntland enters phase four of its offensive against ISIS, aiming to clear remaining fighters and fully secure the liberated areas.
Puntland authorities say recent gains are significant, reporting wide territorial recovery and degradation of ISIS’s operational capabilities in the region