Fears of clashes in Galkayo as Puntland and Galmudug deploy forces

Rival troops from Puntland and Galmudug state are feared to lock in fresh battles in Central Somalia as thousands of people from the conflict-hit town flee to nearby villages and towns.

The fighting in the town shared by the two states has set off alarm bells in the regio, with the Somali federal leaders, politicians, elders and other civil society members urging the warring groups to refrain from violence.

Our Correspondent in Galkayo town said residents living in the town were using any lull in the fighting to flee to safer areas although many said they were too afraid to move.

A local resident told Goobjoog News by telephone that the situation in Galkaayo town was “very tense”.

“It’s continued shooting. Shooting could be heard all through the night,” she said, adding she  was unable to leave her compound.

Puntland accused soldiers of Galmudug of staging attack on northern Galkaayo.

A doctor in Galkaayo said at least 20 people have been killed in the fighting, which erupted late last week.

Sporadic clashes could be heard Tuesday in several parts of the town.

Galkayo is divided into two zones, where the northern portion forms part of Puntland state, while its southern part is governed by the Galmudug administration.