Somalia: Govt deploys troops to central town amid warning

MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Federal Government of Somalia has sent three planes carrying troops, bulletproof cars, and military vehicles to central town on Tuesday, Garowe Online reports.

The deployment comes ahead of expected reconciliation conference for local clans in Dhusamareb town, the regional capital of Galgadud and seat of Galmudug State of Somalia.

However, there is a strong disagreement and standoff between the Ahlu Sunna group which controls the city and the Somali Government over the preparation of the conference and the security arrangements.

In the past, the moderate Islamist group has warned Mogadishu-based Government the consequences of the troop deployment that could trigger bloody conflict in the town.

The leadership of Ahlu Sunna has accused the government of planning to invite elders from other areas who pledged allegiance to Al-Shabab, the Al-Qaeda-linked extremist group in Somalia to join the anticipated meeting.

GAROWE ONLINE