Puntland, Somalia – Security forces in Puntland have arrested two suspected ISIS fighters who were attempting to infiltrate Bosaso, the commercial hub of northeastern Somalia.
According to local security officials, the men were intercepted on the outskirts of the city after intelligence reports suggested foreign militants were attempting to move into populated areas. The suspects, both Ethiopian nationals, were found carrying minimal supplies—dry food and a single bottle of water each—indicating they had traveled on foot through remote terrain.
One of the detainees reportedly spoke limited Somali and claimed that they had fled from an ISIS unit. However, authorities say such statements are under investigation, stressing that individuals linked to extremist groups often attempt to disguise their movements by portraying themselves as escapees.
Puntland, which has been on the frontline in the fight against ISIS and al-Shabaab, has heightened its security operations in recent weeks, particularly around Bosaso and surrounding districts. The coastal city has previously been targeted by extremist cells seeking to exploit its commercial importance and access to maritime routes.
The two suspects are currently in custody, and security officials confirmed they will undergo further interrogation to determine their roles within ISIS and whether they were attempting to regroup with sleeper cells in the region.
Puntland authorities reiterated their commitment to preventing militant infiltration, noting that the arrest underscores the importance of vigilance as extremist groups face mounting pressure across Somalia.