Puntland accuses Somaliland of supporting Al-Shabaab

[Deeq A.]

Puntland’s Minister of Information Abdi Ali Qarjab.

The semi-autonomous regional state of Puntland has accused the breakaway Somaliland of supporting Al-Shabaab militants barely a week after the two groups engaged in deadly battle in Sool region. Abdi Ali Qarjab, Puntland Information minister said Puntland is running out patience and would take up arms to defend its territories. “Somaliland supports Al-Shabaab and Daaesh groups, and that is not something pleasant,” said Qarjab.

Al-Shabaab which is Al-Qaeda affiliate operates both Northern and Southern Somalia where it killed hundreds of innocent people. Despite several leaders of Al-Shabaab – including the group’s late founder, Ahmed Godane – being from Somaliland, it is unclear what the basis of the minister’s accusation is. Somaliland and Puntland have been trading accusations over the recurrent clashes in Sool region. Suleiman Ali Koore, the Minister of Water of Somaliland on Tuesday said that Somaliland is ready to defend anyone that is a threat to its sovereignty but reiterated the importance of peace. On January 9th, forces of Somaliland seized Tukaraq town of Sool region which was under the control of Puntland following a fierce fighting between soldiers loyal to both states. Both Somaliland and Puntland have fought for years over Sool and Sanaag region.

HOL