Las Anod, Northeastern State — Tensions in northern Somalia are rising sharply after the newly formed Northeastern regional administration accused Puntland forces of launching an attack on Boocame district in the Sool region early Saturday morning.
According to reports from the area, the confrontation began when Puntland troops allegedly advanced toward security positions near Boocame, triggering hours of armed clashes that sent residents fleeing for safety. Witnesses described intense exchanges of gunfire and smoke visible from the outskirts of the district.
The Northeastern administration denounced the assault as a deliberate attempt to destabilize its authority, asserting that its forces had successfully defended their positions. It has accused Puntland of trying to reassert control over areas now claimed under the Northeastern administration.
Although Puntland has yet to issue an official statement, sources linked to the regional government indicated that its forces acted in response to what they considered a security threat from irregular armed groups operating outside Puntland’s jurisdiction.
The incident underscores the growing friction between the two sides following the announcement of the Northeastern regional state — a move that Puntland views as an encroachment on its territorial integrity. Boocame’s location, between Las Anod and Qardho, makes it a strategic point in the long-standing contest over the Sool and Sanaag regions, historically disputed by multiple administrations.
Analysts warn that renewed fighting could further destabilize the north, where communities remain vulnerable after years of displacement and recurring conflict. Humanitarian organizations are voicing concern that escalating violence may disrupt aid delivery and worsen conditions for internally displaced families.
Local observers note that civilians are bearing the brunt of these power struggles, as essential services remain disrupted and movement restricted by insecurity. The uncertainty has deepened fears of a wider conflict if urgent mediation does not take place.
While Somalia’s federal government has not commented publicly, calls are growing for federal authorities and traditional elders to intervene before the situation deteriorates further. For the residents of Boocame, the latest clashes have reignited memories of past unrest, leaving them hoping for a swift resolution that restores calm and stability to their region.