Puntland has announced that individuals who previously collaborated with ISIS fighters have come forward to renounce extremism after benefiting from President Deni’s amnesty. In a statement issued by Puntland’s Office for Counterterrorism, authorities confirmed that several Somali individuals who had ties with ISIS militants have seized the opportunity of the presidential pardon. The amnesty, initially declared as a seven-day window, was aimed at those willing to surrender and abandon their involvement with the group.
“The Puntland government welcomes those who have stepped forward and taken advantage of the seven-day presidential amnesty extended to anyone associated with ISIS who is ready to break away from extremist ideology. We also acknowledge the role of community leaders and government representatives in facilitating this process,” the statement read.
Officials further stressed that the amnesty remains open for those who have yet to come forward, as the deadline has not yet lapsed. “There is still time for individuals to turn themselves in and make use of the remaining days of this clemency period,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, Puntland reaffirmed its commitment to stamping out terrorism, vowing that counterterrorism operations will press on until extremist elements are fully dismantled. “We extend our sincere appreciation to the public for standing by the security forces, particularly those in rural areas who continue to report suspicious activity and terrorist movements,” the statement concluded.
