Federal troops, Puntland forces clash near Bosaso amid political standoff
Federal government-aligned troops and Puntland forces clashed in Bari region after a convoy was stopped near Bosaso, amid rising tensions between Puntland and Somalia’s federal government.
Bosaso (Somali Report) — Federal government-aligned troops and Puntland regional forces clashed Monday in Somalia’s Bari region after a convoy leaving Bosaso was stopped near Laag, about 30 kilometers from the port city, officials and local sources said.
Puntland security officials said one person was killed and several others were wounded in the fighting. They said Puntland forces seized the vehicle used by the federal-aligned troops.
The federal government did not immediately comment on the incident.
The troops had reportedly left Bosaso and were traveling along the highway toward Galkayo when Puntland forces stopped them in Laag district. An informed source said the group was heading to Galkayo to pick up other officers from their ranks.
The clash comes amid a growing standoff between Somalia’s Federal Government and Puntland, one of the country’s most influential federal member states. Tensions have deepened since mid-June 2026 as Puntland officials accused federal authorities of moving troops and weapons in ways they say could destabilize the region.
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Puntland recently banned federal military officials and politicians it accused of potentially fueling instability inside its territory. The regional administration said meetings, gatherings or activities organized by what it described as illegal militias would not be allowed within Puntland’s jurisdiction.
Authorities warned that anyone found participating in or facilitating such activities would face legal action.
Puntland also said it would not permit armed forces that do not operate under its authority. The administration cautioned the Federal Government against deploying troops or transporting weapons into Puntland without legal authorization.
Puntland has called for respect for the security framework and administrative structures governing its territory. It said anyone found undermining the region’s security and stability would be dealt with under the law.
The clash near Bosaso risks further escalating tensions between Mogadishu and Garowe at a time when Somalia is already facing political divisions, a continuing insurgency by al-Shabab and pressure to strengthen national security institutions as international military support faces uncertainty.
Puntland, which has long operated with a high degree of autonomy, has frequently clashed politically with the federal government over power-sharing, constitutional changes, elections and security authority.
About the Author
Osman Hassan is a Senior Editor at the Somali Report based in Nairobi with over 15 years of experience in journalism. He has worked with local and international media outlets in Somalia and is an award-winning journalist. His reporting focuses on politics, security, and regional affairs in the Horn of Africa.