MUDUG, {RAXANREEB)-Puntland authorities have confirmed that several prisoners affiliated with the Al-Shabaab group escaped from a prison in the northern part of Gaalkacyo city, which is administered by Puntland.

The number of escapees has been reported to be 12 Al-Shabaab prisoners, all of whom had previously been sentenced to death or life imprisonment, as security sources confirmed to Raxanreeb.

A security officer, who requested anonymity, confirmed that Puntland security forces managed to recapture at least 9 of the escaped Al-Shabaab prisoners after conducting a follow-up operation. He added that the security forces are currently searching for the remaining four escapees, who pose a significant threat to the security of Gaalkacyo.

There has been no official statement from the Puntland security authorities regarding the escaped prisoners. This incident has sparked serious concerns and accusations directed at the officials and leadership responsible for the prison from which the escape occurred.

Similarly, years ago, Al-Shabaab members escaped from a prison in northern Gaalkacyo. Some of those prisoners were shot, others were recaptured, while some managed to return to Al-Shabaab.