Somalia: Galkayo airport shut down for security reasons

Image

GALKAYO, Somalia Sept 26, 2014 (Garowe Online)-Puntland authorities for the second day shut down airport in Mudug regional capital of Galkayo of central Somalia over security reasons as President Gaas is holding extraordinary meeting with cabinet ministers, Garowe Online reports.

The closure has come after Galmudug authorities threatened with attack on Abdullahi Yusuf airport.

The ban on flights into and from Galkayo airport entered the second day, with witnesses reporting that the dispute over new airstrip formed in Galkayo’s Barahley neighborhood is gaining momentum.

Puntland denied Galmudug leader and former warlord Abdi Hassan Awale Qaybdiid entry to Galkayo, deeming the restriction a legitimate.

Sources close to Puntland presidency say, Galkayo airport closure remains high on agendas in the ongoing cabinet meet at Puntland State House.

On Thursday, Galmudug parliamentarian Mohamed Hussein Tahliil told reporters that Galmudug will impose blockade on departing and arriving flights at Galkayo airport if Puntland fails to respond to their demand. 

GAROWE ONLINE

Related Articles

Islamic State in Somalia Suffers Major Financial Setback After Puntland Operations

One of the most significant blows to the group's financial structure came in 2025 with the arrest of Abdiweli Mohamed Yusuf.

  • Puntland

    08-10-2026

  • 12:04PM

Somalia: Puntland, US confirm operation targeting Al-Shabaab weapons depot

Puntland authorities and the United States described the operation as part of an expanding campaign against Al-Shabaab in northern Somalia.

  • Puntland

    17-09-2026

  • 11:16AM