Puntland Security Force

Puntland Security Force

Official seal of the Puntland Security Force

Logo of the Puntland Security Force
Active2002 – present
Country Puntland
BranchMinistry of Security (Puntland)
TypeLaw enforcement, counterterrorism
RoleLaw enforcement, counter-insurgency, internal security
Garrison/HQBosaaso
EngagementsSomali Civil War
Somalia War (2006–2009)
Galgala campaign
Somali Civil War (2009–present)
Islamic State insurgency in Puntland
Qandala campaign
Battle of Af Urur
Puntland counter-terrorism operations
WebsiteOfficial website
Commanders
Current
commander
Director General Mohamud Osman (2018 – present)
Notable
commanders
General Mohamed Aden Bidar (2003 – 2004)
General Osman Abdullahi Mohamud (2004 – 2010)
General Asad Osman Abdullahi (2010 – 2018)

The Puntland Security Force (PSF) is the security force of the autonomous Puntland state in Somalia. The PSF was formed in 2002 to combat terrorism in the region and is independent from the federal government of Somalia and the Puntland government. Among PSF’s main functions are conducting crime scene analysis, capturing and eliminating high-level targets, and reconnaissance.

Since the founding of the state in 1998, Puntland Security Force has operated in Puntland and throughout Somalia. Commanders and senior officials are appointed by a qualified panel approved by the Council of Ministers. The Puntland security apparatus has an independent military judiciary, which during peacetime only adjudges military proceedings. Retired members of the Force are also constitutionally guaranteed pensions.