Northeastern State Troops, Backed by U.S., Nab Top ISIS Figure in Somalia

Somalia: Northeastern State Forces, with U.S. Support, Capture Senior ISIS Leader

AXADLE, Somalia — In a coordinated and daring operation, Northeastern State’s defense forces, aided by U.S. support, succeeded in apprehending a senior figure within the ISIS-Somalia network. The dramatic capture took place in the rugged Calmiskaad mountains of the Bari region.

The leader in question, Abdiweli Mohamed Aw Yusuf—known by some as Abdiweli Walalac—held crucial roles in foreign relations and finance for the group. His arrest, alongside two associates in the area of Laag, Xumbeys, marks a significant victory against extremist networks. Imagine the meticulous planning leading to this moment. Would perseverance always yield such resounding success?

A succinct yet powerful announcement from the Northeastern State counterterrorism unit, posted on X (formerly Twitter), confirmed this achievement. “Operation Hillaac strikes at the heart of terrorism,” they declared, reflecting resilience and hope.

From the perspective of global security, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) had already spotlighted Abdiweli. They attributed to him a crucial role in recruiting foreign fighters, organizing weapon supplies, and transforming ISIS-Somalia into a major operational hub across Africa. Such intricate connections between regions make one ponder the transformative power—and peril—of global networks.

ISIS-Somalia’s economic activities have long drawn scrutiny. The group has been infamous for extorting businesses, especially in the bustling port city of Bosaso. These funds, clandestinely transferred through mobile money platforms, hawalas, and banks, were redirected to support ISIS affiliates throughout the continent. The scale of this financial maneuvering begs the question: in the modern age, how do we truly track and counter covert funding flows?

According to reports, the group extorted nearly $2 million in 2022, down from $2.5 million the previous year. Yet, the battle against such financial misconduct is anything but easy.

In July 2023, the U.S. government designated Abdiweli as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). His tenure as the group’s chief financial officer dates back to 2019, during which he fostered close alliances with other pivotal ISIS leaders like Abdirahman Fahiye Isse and the founder, Abdulkdir Mumin, who also faced international sanctions. Their tight-knit network illustrates how interconnected relationships can shape—and threaten—global security dynamics.

The battle is far from over. The ongoing mission, referred to as Operation Hillaac, is near completion as efforts intensify to track down the remaining ISIS leaders who’ve fled the Calmiskaat mountains. These continued efforts embody a relentless pursuit of peace and justice.

“Success is not the end; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts,” Winston Churchill might have said in times like these. Indeed, this state of vigilance defines modern counterterrorism efforts and reflects the resilience of Northeastern State and its allies.

AXADLETM

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.