(Source: Xinhua)

MOGADISHU, April 23 (Xinhua) -- At least nine Puntland soldiers were killed and three others injured in a landmine explosion on Sunday in Galgala town in Bari region of northern Somalia.

Abdirahman Farah Gurhan, Police Commander in Galgala said the explosion targeted the soldiers who were fighting Al-Shabaab and pro-Islamic State militants in the region.

"I can confirm the landmine in Galgala region which caused casualties on Pultland army. Nine soldiers were killed and three others wounded, the target was our forces who are fighting with the terrorist militants," Farah said.

Al-Shabaab militants claimed responsibility for the latest attack against Puntland soldiers in Galgala town in Bari region.

Puntland State Administration has stepped up its fight against Al-Shabaab, pro-IS militants and piracy activities in the region.