A new security crisis is unfolding in Bosaso and surrounding areas after Puntland security forces launched an operation on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in the Laag area, about 30 kilometers south of the port city along the Bosaso–Garowe highway.
The operation followed Puntland’s interception of members of the Puntland Security Force (PSF) who were allegedly moving toward the coastal district of Haafuun, with authorities saying they seized eight military vehicles during the operation.
The incident has reignited a years-long dispute between the Puntland administration and the PSF, a conflict rooted in competing claims over command of the elite force and intensified by the broader political rift between Puntland and Somalia’s Federal Government.
What is the PSF?
The Puntland Security Force (PSF) was established in 2002 as an elite counter-terrorism unit to combat militant groups operating in Puntland’s mountainous regions.
The force initially received training, equipment, and financial support from the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and became known for conducting operations against suspected extremist networks.
Headquartered in Bosaso, the PSF was originally part of Puntland’s security structure.
However, over time, disagreements emerged over its chain of command, eventually leading the force to operate with increasing autonomy under commanders linked to General Asad Osman Abdullahi (Asad Diyano).
How Did the Dispute Begin?
The conflict escalated after the 2019 Puntland presidential election, in which Said Abdullahi Deni defeated General Asad Diyano.
After taking office, President Deni dismissed Mahamud Osman Diyano, the PSF commander and brother of Asad Diyano.
Diyano rejected the dismissal triggering a prolonged standoff.
The dispute culminated in December 2021, when heavy fighting broke out in Bosaso between Puntland government forces and PSF fighters.
Following the clashes, Puntland dissolved the PSF and established the Puntland Intelligence and Security Agency (PISA) as its official security force.
Why Is the Federal Government Involved?
The dispute expanded beyond Puntland after General Asad Diyano was appointed Chief of the Somali Police Force by the Federal Government.
In October 2024, Mogadishu announced that the PSF had been incorporated into the Somali National Armed Forces as the 17th federal military unit, with its personnel eligible for federal salaries and logistical support.
Puntland rejected the move, arguing that the Federal Government had no constitutional authority to deploy or recognize armed forces within Puntland without the regional government’s approval.
The disagreement further strained already tense relations between Puntland and the Federal Government, contributing to political and security tensions across several Puntland towns.
What Triggered the Latest Confrontation?
According to Puntland, intelligence reports indicated that PSF units had begun moving from Bosaso toward Haafuun, prompting the regional government to deploy forces from the Almiskaad Mountains to secure the Bosaso–Garowe highway and prevent what it described as unauthorized military movements.
Puntland said the operation was carried out under President Deni’s directive prohibiting heavily armed forces from moving through towns and populated areas without authorization.
Authorities maintain that the deployment was necessary to preserve public order and prevent further instability.
What Are the Competing Claims?
Puntland has accused the Federal Government of supporting armed groups operating in Bari region, alleging that forces linked to Mogadishu are attempting to undermine Puntland’s security.
President Deni reiterated last week that Puntland would not “tolerate armed groups operating” outside the authority of the regional administration, warning that decisive action would be taken against any force attempting to establish a military presence without Puntland’s approval.
Since late May 2026, Puntland has deployed large numbers of troops to the outskirts of Garowe, heightening fears of another armed confrontation.
The Federal Government has previously acknowledged the presence of federal forces in parts of Puntland but has not commented on the latest operation in Bosaso.
Likewise, General Asad Diyano has not publicly responded to the incident or Puntland’s allegations.
Tensions in Garowe have eased following mediation by traditional elders, with Kaab TV reporting that the parties have reached a preliminary agreement.
What Happens Next?
Although no major fighting has been reported following the operation, the latest developments have significantly heightened tensions in northeastern Somalia.
The confrontation underscores the unresolved dispute over who has the legal authority to command armed forces operating in Puntland—a disagreement that remains closely tied to the broader political standoff between Puntland and Somalia’s Federal Government.
With neither side showing signs of backing down, observers warn that unless political dialogue resumes, the renewed tensions could further destabilize Bosaso and other parts of Puntland.