Puntland authorities ban civilians from travelling to Tukaraq

Authorities in Puntland state have issued a directive banning civilians from travelling to Tukaraq which has been the epicentre of deadly clashes with Somaliland forces.

The Ministry of Security in a statement Monday directed the police to mount checkpoints in the outskirt of Garowe town to inspect vehicles from and to the town.

The ministry ordered the security agencies not allow civilians to travel to Tukaraq town which is 95km away from the administrative capital of Puntland, Garowe.

“The committee directs the Police not to allow Private and public vehicles to move towards the frontline, The police should also stop the civilians to the war zone” the directive read in part.

The ban comes just days after the state declared new offensives against the breakaway Somaliland.

Puntland cabinet on Saturday announced Puntland state is preparing war to liberate villages and town occupied by Somaliland administration.

Over twenty soldiers from both sides were killed and dozens wounded mid this month after their forces engaged in deadly fighting.

Somali Federal Government leaders have urged both sides to end the conflict immediately and to engage in dialogue to resolve their dispute. The UN has also called for dialogue.

Both Somaliland and Puntland have been in a contest over sool and Sanaag regions with each claiming the control.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 after the collapse of country’s central government led by late Mohamed Siyad Barre.