Puntland authorities in Somalia detained Thursday two Danab elite forces officers who are under the command of General Jimale, and are accused of being involved in the recruitment process of soldiers within Puntland territory, who will be trained for the Somali Federal Government. The two officers were arrested in Garowe, while a third officer reportedly escaped to Lasanod.
As sources said, the officers left from Lasanod and were on their way to Garowe driving a vehicle once they were put in custody. No casualties were reported in the incident.
Puntland previously issued a stern warning that the recruitment of troops trained for the Federal Government will not be permitted in its territory, describing the move as contrary to the decisions issued regarding these issues.
The incident coincided amid heightened political tensions between Puntland and the Somali Federal Government. There is a growing concern that the situation will escalate into armed confrontations.
Meanwhile, some of the traditional elders from Nugal region have called to exercise maximum restraint, calling on the Federal Government, Puntland and Danab Forces to refrain from actions that will escalate into armed clashes.
Puntland President, Mr. Saed Abdilahi Deni, has levelled serious allegations against the Federal Government, accusing that it is carrying out a plan which is aimed to create chaos in Puntland. Deni further highlighted that Puntland troops have the overall capability to maintain the security and the defense of areas under Puntland’s
