Puntland forces seize government-held camp in Somalia’s Galkayo

Puntland forces have seized a government-held military camp in Galkayo, northern Somalia, marking the latest escalation in tensions between the semi-autonomous region and the federal government. The attack occurred amid heavy clashes that saw federal-aligned troops retreat from the area. According to Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, the operation was a pre-planned effort to counter perceived threats to regional security. The conflict erupted early Wednesday near the airport in Galkayo, a key town in Puntland. Armed Puntland forces, supported by military vehicles, launched an offensive against a camp occupied by troops who had previously been loyal to Puntland but later switched allegiance to the federal government based in Mogadishu. Local residents reported hearing mortar fire during the battle, which lasted over an hour. While casualties were confirmed, specific numbers remain unclear. Puntland police stated that their forces successfully completed the operation, resulting in the arrest of more than 100 individuals. They also confiscated weapons, vehicles, and military supplies, including firearms, ammunition, police uniforms, and other gear. Social media posts showed images purportedly capturing Puntland fighters securing the facility, though the authenticity and location of these videos could not be verified. Residents described the situation as chaotic. Mohamed Jama, a local resident contacted by AFP, noted that the fighting had ceased. Another resident, Abdiqani Muse, confirmed that Puntland forces had taken control of the site where the battle occurred, forcing the opposing federal-aligned troops to withdraw to southern Galkayo after being overwhelmed. The incident adds to a series of recent conflicts involving regional factions and the federal government. In March, federal troops ousted the leader of South West State, and in August of last year, fighting erupted between the federal army and Jubaland forces, resulting in multiple fatalities. These confrontations highlight the deep divisions within Somalia, exacerbated by political disputes and constitutional changes. President Deni accused the federal government of undermining Puntland's stability through its military movements. He emphasized that the operation aimed to disrupt efforts by the federal government to destabilize the region. However, neither the federal government nor the commanders of the opposing force have officially commented on Puntland's claims. Tensions have intensified since President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced constitutional amendments earlier this year ahead of scheduled elections. Critics argue that these changes represent an attempt by the president to consolidate power, fueling opposition from regional leaders like Deni, who advocate for maintaining the existing balance of power. The ongoing instability reflects broader challenges facing Somalia, where regional autonomy and federal authority frequently clash. With Puntland asserting control over strategic locations, the potential for further conflict remains high, particularly as both sides continue to maneuver politically and militarily.