Somalia: Security forces conduct search sweeps in Bosaso

BOSASO, Puntland- In response to security deterioration in Bari region, Puntland security forces have carried out an overnight security operations in Bossaso, the commercial city of Puntland, whereby scores of suspects were arrested, Garowe Online reports. 

 A security official told GO that forces have conducted search operations in several neighborhoods and houses in the city and arrested suspects in relation to the killing of government officials lately. 

The suspects are currently held at the police station and under ongoing investigation to probe possible links with militant groups or the assassinations, added the official.

Bossaso has seen an increase of targeted assassinations over the past couple of days. 

Last week, third deputy commander of Puntland Police Forces has died of wounds following gunshots by unknown assailants. Similarly, the Director of Presidential Palace in Bossaso city was killed at Huruse Hotel on Tuesday afternoon. In both incidents, gunmen were reported to flee the scene following the crime. 

 Consequently, authorities conducted security sweeps in the city that napped 120 suspects in the past couple of days. However, authorities are yet to identify the culprits behind the killing of the two officials as investigation and search operations are ongoing. 

This comes amid security deterioration and proliferation of terrorist groups in Puntland region. Last year, a faction has announced allegiance to the Islamic State and captured port town Qandala in last October but was later pushed back by joint military forces in beginning of December. 

GAROWEONLINE