GAROOWE (SD) – Authorities in Puntland have announced plans to pursue strict legal action against militants captured during military operations against Islamic State Somalia in the Al-Miskaad mountain range, with senior officials indicating that convicted fighters could face the death penalty.

Said Abdullahi Deni recently instructed Puntland’s Military Court judiciary to take firm measures against individuals linked to ISIS who were captured during operations in the Al-Miskaad area.

According to Puntland officials, President Deni directed that anyone proven to be a member of ISIS should be sentenced under Puntland’s military court system, including the possibility of capital punishment in accordance with local legal procedures.

The statements come as Puntland security forces continue operations targeting remaining ISIS elements in the Al-Miskaad mountains, where the group has maintained hideouts for years.

Meanwhile, Ilyas Osman Lugatoor reiterated the administration’s hardline position during the opening of a judicial training session for court officials. He stated that Puntland has spent years confronting armed groups threatening regional stability and urged the judiciary to impose severe penalties on individuals involved in terrorism-related crimes.

“Puntland is prepared to prosecute those responsible for terrorism and killings, and we expect the courts to take firm action against criminals,” Lugatoor said.

Puntland has recently intensified military operations in the Bari region following a series of offensives against ISIS militants who had established long-term bases in the Al-Miskaad mountains.

Puntland’s latest statements reflect a tougher security and judicial approach toward ISIS fighters captured during ongoing operations in northeastern Somalia. By publicly emphasizing the possibility of death sentences, Puntland authorities appear to be sending a message aimed at deterring extremist recruitment and demonstrating resolve in their campaign against militant groups.

The Al-Miskaad mountains have long served as a strategic hideout for ISIS-linked militants, making the region an important front in Puntland’s counterterrorism efforts. Recent offensives suggest Puntland is attempting not only to weaken the group militarily but also to dismantle its long-standing presence in the area.

However, the use of military courts and capital punishment could attract scrutiny from human rights organizations and international observers concerned about due process and fair trial standards. Supporters of Puntland’s approach are likely to argue that harsh measures are necessary given the security threat posed by ISIS and the history of militant violence in the region.

The outcome of the current operations and prosecutions may significantly influence Puntland’s broader security strategy and its ability to maintain stability in the Bari region.