A recent clash in Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland State, Somalia, resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and injuries to five others. The confrontation occurred during a planned operation by the Puntland Police Force to recover a bus allegedly stolen from the Puntland Audit Office.
Authorities intercepted the vehicle at Garowe’s East Control Point; it was being driven by individuals impersonating law enforcement personnel and believed to be linked to the defunct Puntland Security Force (PSF). The vehicle was escorted by another car carrying armed men, leading to the deadly exchange of gunfire.
The PSF, once a prominent paramilitary unit trained and equipped by the U.S., has been at the center of several security incidents in Puntland. In June 2024, Puntland’s Police Chief accused the PSF of attacking a police station in Bosaso, resulting in the death of at least one soldier and the release of detainees. The PSF denied these accusations, attributing the incidents to unauthorized actions and clan-related issues.
The recent clash underscores the ongoing security challenges in Puntland, where rivalries between various security forces have led to multiple violent incidents.
Authorities have vowed swift justice in response to the latest violence, emphasizing the need to address the underlying issues contributing to instability in the region.