Mogadishu, Somalia — In a significant escalation of tensions, Puntland state forces have seized control of a government-held camp in Galkayo, Somalia, following a fierce battle that lasted for hours.
The camp, previously occupied by troops aligned with Puntland authorities but who had recently pledged allegiance to Mogadishu, is now under Puntland’s control.
The seizure of the camp marks the latest chapter in the ongoing political and military standoff between Puntland and the Federal Government of Somalia. Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni justified the operation as a necessary security measure to counter those perceived as threats to Puntland’s stability.
The operation, which commenced on August 5, 2026, resulted in the capture of several Puntland Security Force (PSF) officers and equipment. Puntland forces, equipped with military vehicles, engaged in heavy fighting with federal government troops at the camp near the airport in northern Galkayo city. Deni, speaking at a press conference in Garowe, the regional capital, claimed that the operation was a planned security measure aimed at sending a strong message against those working against the Puntland government.
Deni accused the federal government of attempting to undermine Puntland’s security and stability by transporting weapons and troops to the region. “.
The operation targeted a camp where the federal government has recently been transporting weapons, military equipment, and troops in an attempt to undermine Puntland’s security and stability, “Deni stated.
Local medireports suggest that Puntland forces intercepted a shipment of weapons sent by the federal government, which led to the clashes. Puntland police reported that the operation was successful, leading to the arrest of more than 100 people, seizure of weapons, vehicles, and military equipment, including firearms, ammunition, police uniforms, and other supplies. Galkayo residents described the fighting, which lasted for over an hour, with several mortar rounds landing in residential areas.
The incident has raised concerns about the potential for wider armed conflict in the region, which has been relatively stable compared to other parts of Somalia.
The latest developments come amidst a broader dispute between the Puntland administration and Mogadishu over political authority, constitutional interpretation, and control of state institutions. Puntland President Deni’s administration has repeatedly raised concerns over the Somali president’s decisions, but did not elaborate on specific actions taken by Mogadishu that prompted the operation.
As the situation in Galkayo unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, with concerns growing over the potential for a broader conflict that could further destabilize an already fragile region.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
—
This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: aljazeera
Source: Al Jazeera Staff and AFP
