Saturday January 25, 2025

Bosaso (HOL) – Puntland security forces shot and killed a suspected foreign ISIS operative who was attempting to plant a landmine in Bosaso on Friday night. 

A second individual, reportedly wounded during the operation, was also apprehended.  

The commander of the Bari regional police, Colonel Abdikadir Jama Dirir, told local media that the deceased was among foreign nationals previously welcomed in Bosaso. According to the commander, the man had been trading in beads and perfumes while secretly working for terrorist organizations.  

Police also discovered explosives and related materials during a raid on the suspect’s residence.  

“We are fighting international terrorism, especially targeting the 195% foreigners operating. We urge the community to remain vigilant,” Colonel Dirir said.  

The police chief emphasized that the administration will intensify investigations into the activities of foreigners residing in Bosaso without proper documentation. He also urged residents to avoid renting their homes to individuals whose identities and intentions are unclear.  

Puntland, a semi-autonomous region in northeastern Somalia, has faced growing threats from both ISIS-affiliated fighters and al-Shabaab militants, who use the area as a staging ground for operations.