Puntland forces say they seized a military camp near Galkayo airport after an operation targeting troops whose commanders recently pledged loyalty to Mogadishu. Puntland reported more than 100 arrests and the seizure of weapons, vehicles and military equipment, while residents described mortar fire and reported casualties. The incident deepens tensions tied to proposed constitutional reforms by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and neither the federal government nor rival commanders have yet responded.
Puntland Forces Seize Military Camp Near Galkayo Airport Amid Rising Tensions
Map of Somalia showing the Puntland and Somaliland regions [Al Jazeera]
Heavily armed Puntland forces on Wednesday launched an operation to seize a military camp near the airport in northern Galkayo, displacing troops whose commanders had recently pledged allegiance to Mogadishu. Puntland officials say the raid was intended to disrupt an alleged federal buildup of weapons and personnel inside Puntland territory.
Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni told reporters in Garowe the operation was 'a planned security operation' meant 'to send a clear message to anyone working against the Puntland government.' He accused federal authorities of moving arms and troops into the area to 'undermine Puntland's security and stability.'
In a brief statement, Puntland police said local forces had 'successfully concluded' the operation, detaining more than 100 people and seizing weapons, vehicles and military equipment, including firearms, ammunition and uniforms. Undated footage circulating on social media appears to show men claiming to be Puntland fighters taking control of a military facility, though the footage's origin could not be verified.
Residents told AFP they heard several mortar rounds and that fighting lasted more than an hour, with some rounds falling in residential areas. Casualties were reported, but authorities had not released figures. Local residents said federal-aligned troops withdrew to southern Galkayo after being overpowered.
Broader Context
The clash is the latest in a series of confrontations between Somalia's federal government and regional administrations. Tensions have risen since President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud proposed constitutional changes in March aimed at centralizing authority ahead of planned elections—a move opposed by many regional leaders who view it as a power grab.
Previous incidents this year include an operation in March against the leader of South West State and clashes last August between federal and Jubaland forces. Neither Somalia's federal government nor the commanders of the rival force in Galkayo have publicly responded to Puntland's account of the attack.
Puntland remains a key regional actor in Somalia's fragmented political landscape, and any escalation risks further destabilizing an already fragile security situation.
Independent verification of many claims remains limited; reporters were unable to confirm casualty totals or exactly when and where some video footage was filmed.
Help us improve.
