A court in Somalia’s Puntland State has brought charges against six Moroccans and one Ethiopian for their alleged involvement in training with the Islamic State (IS) faction in the Cal-Miskaat mountains.
According to reports, the accused individuals claim they were misled into joining the group and now seek deportation to their respective countries. Their defense lawyer has asserted that the Moroccans surrendered voluntarily.
The Moroccans facing charges have been identified as Mohamed Hassan, Ahmed Najwi, Khalid Latha, Mohamed Binu Mohamed Ahmed, Ridwan Abdulkadir Osmany, and Ahmed Hussein Ibrahim.
Additionally, two Somali men have been accused of conspiring with IS Somalia, although they have denied the charges brought against them.
The court is expected to deliver its verdict on this case today, February 29th.
Authorities say the development is part ongoing efforts by authorities in Puntland State to combat terrorism and address the presence of extremist groups in the region.
Mustaqbal
