Rising Tensions in Northern Somalia: Northeastern State Accuses Puntland of Attack on Boocame

Rising Tensions in Northern Somalia: Northeastern State Accuses Puntland of Attack on Boocame

The newly formed Northeastern regional state has accused Puntland authorities of launching an attack on Boocame district in the Sool region, escalating political and security tensions in northern Somalia.

According to a statement released Friday, fighting broke out in Boocame in the afternoon, resulting in injuries. The Northeastern administration specifically accused forces operating under the command of the Puntland presidency of carrying out the assault.

Boocame District Commissioner Mahdi Rashaad described the incident as an attempt “to create insecurity and chaos” in the town. Puntland authorities have not yet issued a response to these allegations.

Boocame, located about 70 kilometers east of Garowe, has become a flashpoint in the ongoing territorial dispute between Puntland and the newly formed Northeastern regional state. Puntland Vice President Ilyas Lugatoor, a native of Boocame, has repeatedly affirmed that the town remains part of Puntland, while the Northeastern administration claims it falls under its jurisdiction.

The district has also been at the center of political contention. Puntland previously blocked efforts to register voters in Boocame during the one-person, one-vote elections organized by the Federal Government of Somalia in the Northeastern regions, further highlighting the dispute over control.

This latest confrontation underscores the fragile security situation and deepening political divisions in northern Somalia as rival administrations continue to vie for territorial and political influence. Observers warn that unresolved tensions like these could destabilize the region further if dialogue and mediation efforts are not prioritized.