GAROWE (SD) – Puntland security forces, supported by United States counterterrorism operatives, have captured Abdiweli Mohamed Aw Yusuf (alias Abdiweli Walala), the chief financial officer of ISIS in Somalia and the group’s key liaison for foreign fighters, according to an official statement released today.

The high-profile arrest took place during a targeted operation in the village of Laag, Xumbeys District. Puntland authorities described the mission as part of an ongoing counterterrorism campaign that has significantly degraded ISIS capabilities in the region.

“Security forces apprehended Abdiweli Walalac, ISIS’s finance head and foreign fighter coordinator, along with two associates during the carefully planned operation,” the statement from Puntland’s Counterterrorism Operations Office confirmed.

The US-backed “Hawlgalka Calmiskaad” (Counterterrorism Operation) provided critical support for the mission. Officials emphasized that the operation marks a breakthrough in dismantling ISIS’s financial networks in Somalia.

“Our counterterrorism campaign has reached a decisive phase, with intensified efforts to pursue fleeing ISIS operatives and their leadership,” the statement added, signaling continued operations against the group’s remnants.

The arrest deals a significant blow to ISIS-Somalia, which has been attempting to establish footholds in Puntland while competing with the larger Al-Shabaab militant group. Analysts note that disrupting the group’s financial operations could cripple its ability to pay fighters and procure weapons.

Puntland has emerged as a crucial partner in regional counterterrorism efforts, with US forces providing training, intelligence, and operational support to local security forces. Today’s successful operation underscores the effectiveness of this partnership in targeting high-value terrorist figures.

Authorities have not disclosed Walalac’s current location or whether he will face trial in Puntland or be transferred to other jurisdictions. Security forces remain on high alert for potential retaliatory attacks by ISIS sympathizers.

This development comes as Somalia continues to grapple with multiple security threats, with both ISIS and Al-Shabaab maintaining an active presence in various regions of the country.