Puntland says Galkayo operation sent ‘clear message’ to Somali government
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Staff Reporter GAROWE ONLINE
- Posted On 05-08-2026, 12:39PM
GAROWE, Somalia — Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni on Wednesday accused Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, whose 4-year mandate expired last May, of responsibility for recent clashes in the central city of Galkayo after Puntland forces seized a military camp allegedly used to recruit militias loyal to the federal government.
Deni said in a televised address that federal authorities had been fuelling tensions in Galkayo by deploying troops and weapons to the area before Puntland forces took control of the compound.
“The operation carried out by Puntland forces in Galkayo sends a clear message to anyone engaged in activities that threaten Puntland’s security and state authority,” Deni said.
He warned that any consequences arising from the conflict would be the federal government's responsibility and urged Hassan Sheikh to “change course before the crisis deepens.”
The Puntland Defence Force said it had taken control of the military camp and detained 101 militia members aligned with the Somali federal government, including senior commanders.
Puntland authorities said they also seized weapons, military vehicles, police uniforms and other security equipment, including items they claimed were part of Chinese aid provided to the Somali Police Force.
Jubaland, another semi-autonomous Somali state, accused the federal government of creating instability in Puntland, particularly in Galkayo, and backed Puntland’s actions.
In a statement, Jubaland said weapons and military equipment were being moved into peaceful areas while Somali forces fighting Al-Shabaab were facing shortages of arms and supplies. It warned that the developments in Galkayo threatened security, stability and ongoing reconciliation efforts.
The latest clash adds to growing tensions between Mogadishu and some regional administrations over security, governance and political issues.
GAROWE ONLINE
