In the early hours of the day today, the Islamic State in Somalia (IS-Somalia aka ISIS) launched a massive attack on two bases of the Puntland Defense Forces (PDF), employing an unprecedented number of suicide bombers and fighters in an attempt to inflict maximum damage and terror. The attack, which took place in the early hours of the morning, involved 20 suicide bombers using 2 SVBIEDs (Suicide Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices) and 7 motorbike bombs, along with around 200 fighters armed with assault rifles and other weapons.
The PDF personnel at the two bases, located in strategic positions in the Togga Jecel area of the Bari region of Puntland, found themselves under intense fire and facing a determined enemy that seemed to have little regard for their own lives. The ISIS fighters, many of whom were believed to be foreign fighters from various countries in the region and beyond, attacked with a ferocity and coordination.
However, despite the initial shock and confusion caused by the attack, the PDF quickly regrouped and mounted a fierce counterattack, drawing on their training, experience, and resolve to push back against the ISIS onslaught. In a battle that lasted for nine hours, the PDF engaged the terrorists in close-quarters combat, using a combination of small arms fire, heavy weapons, and air support.
The High Cost of the Battle
The battle took a heavy toll on both sides, with the PDF suffering a number of casualties and the ISIS fighters leaving behind a trail of destruction and carnage. According to initial reports from the PDF, at least 70 ISIS terrorists were killed in the fighting. The actual number of ISIS casualties may be even higher, as some of the fighters may have been killed in the initial explosions or managed to flee the scene in the chaos of the battle.
The PDF also suffered losses in the attack, with many soldiers killed and wounded in the fighting. The exact number of PDF casualties has not been officially released, but sources within the force have indicated that the toll was significant, given the scale and intensity of the attack.
Despite the high cost of the battle, however, the PDF’s successful defense of the bases and defeat of the ISIS attackers is being hailed as a major victory in the fight against terrorism in Somalia. The fact that the PDF was able to withstand such a massive and coordinated attack and emerge victorious is a testament to the skill, bravery, and determination of the Puntland forces, and a clear message to ISIS and other terrorist groups that they will not be allowed to operate with impunity in the region.
The Implications of the Attack
The ISIS attack on the PDF bases is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by the terrorist group in Somalia and the broader Horn of Africa region. Despite suffering significant setbacks in recent months, including the loss of key leaders and territory, ISIS has shown that it remains a potent and dangerous force, capable of launching complex and deadly attacks against even well-defended targets.
The attack also underscores the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation among the various security forces and international partners working to counter the ISIS threat in Somalia.
To effectively combat ISIS and other terrorist groups in Somalia, it is essential that the PDF and other security forces continue to receive the training, equipment, and support they need to carry out their mission.
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