Somalia’s security forces successfully repelled a suicide attack by Islamic State bombers on a military base in the northeastern Puntland region on Tuesday.
The assault marked the first significant and sophisticated attack by the group in the country.
The attack occurred just weeks after Puntland launched a major offensive targeting both Islamic State and al Shabaab, an al Qaeda-linked militant group.
During the assault, Puntland’s deputy speaker was visiting the base, according to Captain Yusuf Mohamed, a counter-terrorism officer in the region.
Nine suicide bombers were killed in the failed attack, with several soldiers injured, the officer confirmed.
Puntland State TV reported that eight of the attackers were among the fatalities, adding that the raid took place near the town of Dharjaale in Bari.
Islamic State has had a presence in Puntland since 2017, when it was recognized as a Somali province.
Though it was initially seen as a minor threat compared to al Shabaab, the group has gained strength in recent years.
Analysts suggest this attack was a preemptive move to disrupt Puntland’s impending offensive.
The group’s leader, Abdulqadir Mumin, has recently been touted as the global leader of Islamic State in the region.
With foreign fighters joining its ranks and increased extortion of local businesses, the group has become a significant force in Africa’s insurgent movement.
“This attack mirrors al Shabaab’s tactics,” said Jay Bahadur, co-director of Scopus, a regional consultancy. “It’s a clear message before the upcoming offensive.”
