Al-Shabaab Grouping Near Africa Oil Wells, Galgala Mountains Puntland
April 12 | Posted by David Goldman | Intelligence NewsAfrica Oil may face growing security threats near its oil rigs, wells, and drilling resources in Puntland, intelligence reports show.
The threat of a violent and vengeful Al-Shabaab is manifesting gradually with hundreds of fighters seen taking positions in the Galgala mountains of Puntland.
Militant fighters led by former arms trader Mohamed Said Atom have welcomed pockets of fleeing Al-Shabaab soldiers who have fled Biadoa and Mogadishu and South Somalia.
Al-Shabaab leadership is also in the process of relocating to the to Galgala Mountains, which is an area with a very difficult terrain, Somalia intelligence services have confirmed.
If the Al-Shabaab is grouping near such a strategic area, it would mean serious insurgency would be planned in the coming months.
Another problem would be Al-Shabaab is very upset with British efforts in Somalia hence target the oil exploration company resources in the area.
The terrain at Galgala mountains is completely dangerous and inaccessible hence a good launching pad for serious militant activity, kidnap of oil workers, and ask for ransom.
Africa Oil is currently drilling oil in Puntland and had early this year faced some militant threats when Said Atom’s militia threatened to attack their resources and even revoke their licenses to operate the oil blocks.
