Clan Militias Clash In Gaalkacyo, Leaving At Least One Dead

GOOBJOOG NEWS | GAALKACYO: Fighting between two clan-based militias has broken out in the Buula Bacley neighbourhood of Gaalkacyo, leaving at least one person dead and several others injured, according to local reports.

The fighting, which lasted for nearly an hour, sent residents seeking safety as heavy gunfire was reported in the area.

Several people wounded in the clashes were taken to health facilities in Gaalkacyo for treatment, while the full extent of the casualties remained unclear.

The confrontation is believed to be linked to longstanding tensions between the two sides, which have previously clashed in parts of eastern Mudug.

The latest fighting has raised concerns that the dispute could spread into Gaalkacyo, a strategically important city divided administratively between Puntland and Galmudug.

Local authorities were reported to be working to calm the situation and mediate between the rival groups in an effort to prevent further violence.

The renewed clashes come as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently visited Gaalkacyo during a wider tour of Galmudug, where he praised improvements in security and called for greater unity and stability in the city.

Residents have urged the rival sides to end the fighting and called on authorities to take immediate steps to protect civilians.

The security situation in Buula Bacley remained tense following the clashes, with authorities yet to provide a full account of the incident or confirm the total number of casualties.