Islamic State branch captured a key area in the northeastern state of Somalia

In what may be the first major attack on the Somali authorities, ISSomalia extremists captured a strategicallyimportantcity inthe north-eastof the state on Wednesday, a move that could spark bitter fighting with security forces in the region known for peace and stability.

Somali extremists have captured the city of Balidhidin in the Bari region, making it the first city to fall into the hands of militants whose presence in the north-east of the state has increased according to analysts.

Most of the activists are based in the Golis Mountains. According to the authorities, the militants killed a district chief and injured a civilian.

It is not known why the commissioner was dismissed, but activists have often targeted security forces and senior government officials. At around 8 p.m., the fighters stormed the city. . looting government offices before taking the city. The authorities of the Northeast have not yet released any statements on the latest developments to you. Dozens of activists were also killed.

In particular, according to intelligence reports, security forces managed to eliminate foreign fighters working with IS-Somalia extremists who trained residents in parts of the northeastern state.

but they encountered opposition from rival AlShabaab group. The two groups often clashed, which almost gave the security forces an edge in fighting the militants.

President Said Abdullahi Deni, the regional leader, has also signed several security pacts with other states, notably Galmadug, which will further contribute to the fight against violent extremism in Somalia.

Source: Axadle Times