Hiiraan Online
Friday, October 07, 2016
Puntland and Galmudug forces clashed on the outskirts of Galkayo town earlier today.
Unconfirmed reports say the battle ensued after Puntland forces attempted to demolish a structure Galmudug administration erected on the border between the two semi-autonomous regions. Gunshots exchanged by the warring troops could be heard all over the town.
So far wounded combatants were rushed to hospitals in the northern parts of the town for treatment.
The encounter erupted suddenly despite the fact that the two semi-autonomous administrations were recently on bad terms. The Galmudug decision to build the structure on the volatile boundary only exasperated tensions.
Puntland and Galmudug states have also been sending threatening messages to each other following bombardment carried out by US fighter jets which killed tens of Galmudug soldiers of which Pentagon said the bombardment was directed by Puntland.
HOL contacted officials from the warring states which opted to remain silent on the matter.
The clashes could cause widespread displacement in Galkayo, a town which lies partially in Puntland and partially in the jurisdiction of Galmudug.