Somalia: Puntland Appoints New Military Commanders as Security Buildup Intensifies in Mudug

GAROWE, Somalia – Puntland authorities have stepped up security preparations in Somalia's central Mudug region, appointing new military commanders and reinforcing troop deployments amid heightened security concerns, officials said.

In an official directive dated July 22, the Puntland Darawiish Forces announced changes to the leadership of the 60th Division's Gadaale Unit as part of what it described as a restructuring of the command.

Captain Mohamed Ali Adan was appointed commander of the unit, while First Lieutenant Ahmed Qorane Mahmoud was named its chief of staff, according to the order signed by Puntland Darawiish Forces Commander Brig. Gen. Adan Abdi Hashi.

The military instructed all relevant units to cooperate fully with the newly appointed officers and facilitate the execution of their duties.

The command reshuffle comes as Puntland has reportedly reinforced its military presence in Mudug by deploying additional forces to the region, where security activity and heightened vigilance have increased in recent weeks.

Puntland authorities did not specify the reason for the troop buildup, but the measures come amid ongoing security challenges in parts of central Somalia.

Somalia's federal government is planning to recruit militia from within Puntland in what critics allege is an effort to undermine security and stability in the northeastern Federal State, amid an ongoing political dispute between Mogadishu and Garowe.

Puntland and the federal government have been at odds over constitutional changes, elections and the distribution of power, straining relations between the two sides.

GAROWE ONLINE