Somali Pirate Boss Targeted in Helicopter Attack by Puntland Forces

In Puntland, Somalia, officials have reported that its forces have aerially attacked a Somali pirate leader.

The pirate was believed to be in a house in the Bali Dhidid village where helicopters released fire on; he is possibly wounded, but did manage to escape the attack. Three vehicles were destroyed as a result of the barrage.

The pirate boss has been identified as Issa Yuluh. This attack comes a day after the Puntland’s troops launched a raid on the pirate infested town of the Bargal, according to the Washington Post.

Although the severity of pirate attacks are intensifying, attacks by Somali pirates off the country’s coast have reduced in the first quarter of 2012 following a combined international effort to eliminate piracy.