According to travel documents found at the scene, Alwahshaani entered East Africa through Ethiopia’s Bolo International Airport on December 18, 2024.
Puntland Defense Forces have discovered evidence of recent ISIS recruitment activities following a successful raid on a militant base in Somalia’s Cal Miskaat mountains. Military officials recovered the passport of a 20-year-old Saudi citizen, identified as Alwahshaani Mohammed Ahmed, during an operation targeting ISIS strongholds in the Bari region.
According to travel documents found at the scene, Alwahshaani entered East Africa through Ethiopia’s Bolo International Airport on December 18, 2024. The timing of his arrival coincides with the lead-up to Puntland’s current military campaign against ISIS forces in the region. The passport, issued in November 16, 2024, provides clear evidence of a recent recruitment pipeline bringing foreign fighters to the area.
The Cal Miskaat mountains, known for their difficult terrain, serve as a base for ISIS operations under the leadership of Sheikh Abdulqadir. Intelligence sources indicate that numerous foreign fighters have been drawn to this remote region for militant activities.
The discovery comes just weeks after a deadly suicide attack against Puntland forces on December 31, 2024, where 12 militants from six different countries, including a Saudi Arabian national, targeted military positions. This recent attack underscores the growing concern about foreign fighter recruitment in the region.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a Puntland military officer confirmed that authorities are cooperating with the Saudi Arabian embassy regarding the discovery. “We are sharing all relevant information about Alwahshaani Mohamed Ahmed with Saudi officials,” the officer stated.
The exact route Alwahshaani took from Ethiopia into Puntland remains unclear, highlighting ongoing concerns about border security and militant movements in the region. This discovery comes as part of broader military efforts to combat ISIS presence in Somalia’s northeastern territory.
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