MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Puntland regional forces have surrounded a camp in Galkayo used by Puntland Security Force (PSF) personnel aligned with Somalia’s federal government, intensifying a rapidly escalating standoff that has heightened fears of a broader conflict in the strategic central town, where former Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke has warned that any confrontation could drain resources needed for Somalia’s fight against insurgents.
Wararka Soomaaliya
The Daily Somalia news outlet reported on Tuesday that Puntland forces had deployed around all sides of the PSF camp, with tensions between the rival sides reaching their highest level since 2021.
The latest deployment follows a sharp deterioration in relations after recent fighting near Bosaso, where Puntland authorities said their forces seized 13 military vehicles, captured 30 PSF members and overran their positions in the Laag area, north of the strategic port city.
Puntland authorities have also accused Somalia’s federal government of carrying out military maneuvers in Galkayo aimed at undermining the regional administration. The regional government further said the PSF is neither part of Puntland’s official security forces nor registered under the federal government.
Faahfaahinta
The growing military buildup has prompted an increasing number of former Puntland officials to warn against the risk of armed conflict in Galkayo.
Former Somali Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke on Tuesday urged Puntland’s leadership to avoid what he described as an unjustified military confrontation, warning that such a conflict would divert critical personnel and equipment from Somalia’s campaign against insurgents.
“Galkacyo is not Almiskad. Puntland State authority must refrain itself from waging a war of aggression against fellow Puntland Forces without any legal justifications,” he said.
Saamaynta
Sharmarke warned that a conflict in Galkayo would carry consequences extending well beyond the immediate battlefield.
“The amount of weaponry that has been directed towards this looming conflict in Galkacyo city will definitely drain human and material capital needed for the war on terror. Further, it may trigger some serious consequences including: regional instability, humanitarian crisis and the risk of pulling other forces into this military escalation.”
The developments reflect deepening tensions between Puntland and Somalia’s federal government, with the latest military deployments and recent clashes fueling concerns that the standoff could further strain security efforts at a time when the country continues to battle a persistent insurgency.
Wararka.so waxay kuu soo tebineysaa wararka ugu dambeeyey ee Soomaaliya iyo caalamka. Si aad ula socoto wararkii ugu dambeeyey, booqo boggayaga.
