A series of overnight airstrikes hit suspected Islamic State positions in Puntland, in northeastern Somalia, Shabelle reported via AllAfrica on Tuesday. Security sources said the strikes struck the areas of Dabablayaal and Hal Baalade in Qandala district.
Both areas lie east of Dhaadaar. They are close to positions held by Puntland's regional security forces around Togga Jaceel Sare, according to local security information. The number of casualties and the extent of the damage were not immediately known.
US forces reportedly carried out the strikes to support operations against Islamic State fighters in the Cal Miskaad mountains. Puntland forces have waged a prolonged campaign against the group there. Neither US Africa Command nor Puntland authorities gave immediate official confirmation.
Local sources said security information gathered over the past four weeks showed Islamic State operatives gathering in Hal Baalade and Dabablayaal. Among them were members involved in operations and in planting landmines. The fighters were also reportedly active near the Wangable well and the settlements of Goob and Gardaadin, all in Qandala district. Some had earlier operated east of Togga Jaceel, where the group kept bases and strategic positions.
The rugged Cal Miskaad range has served as a major stronghold for Islamic State's Somalia branch. According to security information, the group last carried out direct attacks in the Dasaan area on September 27, using explosive-laden drones. That attack showed it can still deploy improvised aerial weapons despite sustained military pressure.
On September 5, a landmine exploded between Sheebaab and Dhaadaar, killing one Islamic State member, the same sources said. The blast was reportedly a failed attack.
Islamic State has a smaller presence in Somalia than Al-Shabaab. However, it has built networks in Puntland's mountains, where it has faced repeated operations by regional forces backed by the US.