Bosaso (WDN) – Puntland authorities have declared a major security victory after announcing that state forces had seized full control of the former Puntland Security Force (PSF) headquarters in Bosaso, describing the operation as a decisive step toward dismantling unauthorized armed groups and establishing a single, unified security command across the state.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Puntland Defense Forces confirmed they had taken control of the facility previously occupied by the PSF, a force the government says had been operating outside Puntland’s legally recognized security structure. The announcement follows a broader security operation launched a day earlier in Galkayo, where Puntland forces targeted armed groups accused of undermining public order, state authority, and regional stability.

According to the government, security forces detained 101 suspects, while 60 wounded fighters were taken into custody. Authorities also reported seizing a substantial cache of weapons, ammunition, military vehicles, communications equipment, and police gear, including uniforms, boots, and handcuffs. Puntland further alleged that some of the recovered equipment formed part of an earlier donation from the Chinese government to the Somali Police Force.

Officials said the operation was conducted in accordance with Puntland’s Constitution and laws, stressing that its objective was to protect civilians, strengthen state institutions, and reinforce the rule of law.

Toward a Single Security Command

More significantly, Puntland used the operation to announce what could become one of the most consequential shifts in its security policy in years. The government declared that all armed groups operating outside Puntland’s official security institutions must either disarm or surrender, including formations claiming allegiance to Somalia’s Federal Government.

Officials made clear that Puntland will no longer tolerate parallel military structures or competing chains of command, insisting that the state recognizes only one lawful security authority responsible for maintaining public order and defending Puntland’s territory.

Authorities called on all remaining armed groups to surrender voluntarily and return to the legal security framework, warning that those who refuse will face continued military operations and prosecution under Puntland law. The government also cautioned that anyone providing shelter, logistical support, or other assistance to armed groups would be held legally accountable.

Puntland appealed to residents to continue cooperating with security agencies by reporting individuals or groups involved in activities that threaten public safety. Citizens were encouraged to use the state’s emergency hotline, with authorities pledging to protect the identity and safety of those providing information.

The latest operation marks a significant effort by Puntland to consolidate all security institutions under a centralized command structure. Officials argue that eliminating parallel armed formations is essential to strengthening governance, preventing internal fragmentation, and ensuring long-term stability.

If fully implemented, the policy would effectively end the presence of competing armed organizations within Puntland and establish a single, unified security architecture under the authority of the Puntland Government—an outcome officials describe as fundamental to safeguarding the state’s security, stability, and rule of law.

WardheerNews