Bosaso (WDN)- In a significant operation aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics, Puntland security forces seized a boat carrying military uniforms and equipment along the coast of Bari region. The Puntland Counterterrorism Operations Unit issued a statement confirming that the boat and its crew, all identified as Somali nationals, were apprehended off the coast of Qaw, a coastal locality in Bosaso District. The boat is currently being held as investigations are underway.

According to the statement, the operation was part of a broader security crackdown to cut off supply lines for extremist groups operating in the Al-Miskaad Mountains, where Puntland forces are conducting a major anti-terror offensive against ISIS-affiliated militants.

“The security forces have seized a boat transporting military uniforms and other equipment, along with its crew, who are all Somali nationals. The boat was intercepted in the waters off Qaw in the Bari region,” read the official statement released to the media.

This successful operation highlights Puntland’s commitment to securing its coastal regions and preventing terrorist groups from exploiting maritime routes for resupplying weapons, equipment, and other logistics. Security analysts believe that intercepting such shipments is crucial for weakening ISIS’s operational capacity in the region.

Since the launch of the military campaign in the Al-Miskaad Mountains, Puntland has intensified its presence along the coastline of the Bari region. The government has stationed additional naval patrols to monitor and secure strategic waters, ensuring that militant groups are denied access to maritime supply routes.

The operation forms part of a wider strategy to contain and dismantle ISIS’s influence in Puntland. Over the past few weeks, Puntland forces have carried out several successful offensives, capturing key hideouts and strongholds in the Al-Miskaad Mountains. The move to secure coastal areas is seen as a complementary measure to the ongoing ground operations, aimed at isolating militants and cutting off their external support.

The Puntland government has called on local communities along the coastline to cooperate with security forces by reporting suspicious activities and assisting in the fight against terrorism. Authorities are also expected to provide more details about the intercepted boat and the individuals involved once the ongoing investigation is completed.

With Puntland playing a critical, role in Somalia’s fight against terrorism, operations like these are a vital step toward stabilizing the region and securing it from the influence of extremist groups.

WardheerNews