FORCES TO THE PUNTLAND CONFLICT NOW CRYSTAL CLEAR TO ALL CONCERNED

The position of the State Government of Puntland on destabilizing elements has been vindicated as the forces to the conflict become now quiet apparent: Puntland State vs. Al Itihad extremists supported by the combination of Arta Faction, Djibouti and Arab money.

During the operation: PUNTLAND STABILITY FIRST, forces of the state that were ordered to restore Law & Order encountered, along the Garowe- Bosaso Road, only militants of the Al Itihad Al Islami. Many of these extremists gave themselves up in a series of battles on the way as the more advanced military tactics; strategy and better training of the State forces had overwhelmed them.

Despite the defeat suffered by the extremists in eastern parts of Puntland, however, and the fact that the leadership of this militant organization have been fleeing to take refuge or safe heaven in countries like United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, the main sources of its funds, communication facilities, connections and influence, the ranks-and-file of this radical Wahabiya-brand is re-organizing itself now in the regions of Sool, Nugaal, upper Mudug, and District of Buuhoodle. Their current campaign could lead to the repeat of 1992 SSDF-Al Itihad war.

Fortunately, Puntland State of Somalia is better prepared, however, than the SSDF of 1992.