Fresh fighting in Galkaayo claims 10 lives barely a week after peace pact

At least ten people have been killed in another round of vicious fighting between Galmudug and Puntland forces barely a week after leaders from both sides signed a peace deal mediated by the Emirati government.

Multiple sources in both sides and Goobjoog News correspondent report that between 10 and 15 soldiers from Galmudug and Puntland were killed in the fighting which started in Galsoor village, in Galkaayo.

Galsoor has been the epicenter of fighting between the two forces in the recent past that has seen dozens killed and thousands displaced.

Goobjoog News cannot independently verify the casualty figures but sources confirm heavy artillery was deployed in the fighting causing panic in the region.

Five days ago Puntland and Galmudug said in a joint statement they had agreed to a unilateral end of hostilities and that a peace process was in the works which would culminate in a lasting agreement to be signed in Kismayu later this month.

They also agreed to stop any form of provocation and allow the return of displaced persons whom the UN estimates at the upwards of 75,000.

But briefly before the preliminary aspects of the peace deal were dealt with, heavy clashes broke today casting doubts on hopes of the peace process.

In a statement today, Puntland has accused its neighbour, Galmudug of failing to adhere to the terms of the agreement.