Thursday January 9, 2025
Garowe (HOL) — Foreign members of the Islamic State group have surrendered to Puntland authorities, the state's Information Minister, Mahmoud Aided Dirir, announced on Tuesday.
Dirir revealed that arrangements are underway to repatriate the surrendered fighters to their home countries with the assistance of international organizations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Red Crescent. However, he declined to disclose the number of fighters, their nationalities, or a timeline for their return.
"There were foreigners who surrendered, and the process of deporting them to their countries is underway. The IOM and the Red Crescent are collaborating with us," said Dirir during a press briefing.
The minister emphasized that all individuals, whether Somali or foreign nationals, who have been involved in crimes will face justice equally under the laws.
Dirir also dismissed rumors that foreign fighters would be excluded from President Said Abdullahi Deni's amnesty program, affirming that the offer remains open.