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Scores Killed in Heavy Fighting In Somalia's Puntland Region

Fierce fighting between Islamic State militants and security forces from Somalia's Puntland region has left scores dead. Officials say the latest fighting was the heaviest since authorities in the semi-automous region launched an offensive last month against the terrorist group.

Earlier, Puntland announced the capture of a senior member of the Islamic State group operating in the country. Abdirahman Shirwac Aw-Saciid, known by the alias "Laahoor" is allegedly the head of the group's notorious assassination squad.

His capture comes days after U.S. airstrikes in the region "neutralized" key figures in the leadership of the Islamic State. A Somali government statement said the operation was "jointly coordinated by the Somali and American governments" and had targeted "senior IS leaders".

Analysts said the jihadist group is growing in its influence in Somalia. The influx of foreign fighters and the enhanced revenue collection - which the group garners from extorting local businesses - have made Somalia "increasingly vital" in its global network.

InFocus

Ahmed Abdullahi/Wikimedia Commons

A street in northern Puntland's Galkayo town (file photo)..

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