Galmudug Security Minister Says Probing Arms Truck in Abudwaq as Weapons Sold in Local Market

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Galmudug state government in central Somalia has spoken about the cache of weapons which were looted by locals on Abudwaq town Monday afternoon.

Deputy Security Minister Ali Bashi Abdullahi said investigations were already underway to determine the owners of the weapons which are now in the hands of clan militias.

“We are investigating who owns these weapons and why they were brought to Galmudug,” the minister said noting there were serious concerns that the weapons were now being distributed in the town.

Abdullahi said trucks were initially thought to be carrying communication antennas but locals suspected it was carrying weapons and mounted roadblocks in Shilow Madow area resulting in a fierce clash.

At least nine people were killed and several others injured during the exchange of fire.

According to multiple sources, the weapons were reportedly imported from Ethiopia by some influential individuals in central Somalia raising fears it could be used to arm militias and cause further instability in an already volatile part of the country.

Sources now say the weapons are being sold in weapon markets in Abudwaq town.