Somalia: New Puntland State TV director targeted in Al-shabaab ambush

BOSASO, Puntland Sept 2, 2014 (Garowe Online)- Amidst worsening security situation in Bari region of northeastern Somalia, suspected Al Shabaab militants ambushed a vehicle carrying the newly appointed Director of Puntland Television and Radio Agency Abdifatah Nuur Qodah Ashkir along Garowe-Bossaso highway on Tuesday, Garowe Online reports.

According to independent sources, landmine explosion firstly triggered plumes of black smoke nearby while he was driving Meer-Meerka escarpment and fallow-up bullets were sprayed with the car enroute to Bossaso port city.

Ashkir escaped unhurt and safely arrived in Bossaso on Tuesday afternoon, well informed sources stated.

Terror attacks on Garowe-Bossaso highway by Al Qaeda linked Al Shabaab fighters have been proliferating at  an alarming rate over the last few months.

Puntland military court chairman Abdifatah Haji Adan survived an attempt on his life in early August.

Al Shabaab militants are beleived to have infiltrated into Somalia's stable Puntland after intense military campaign that saw vast vicinities under militants control.

Meanwhile, Puntland government was not quick to issue warnings and put security agencies on standby for the looming threats of instability.

GAROWEONLINE

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