Five die as Inter-militia clash embarks in Abud-Wak

Hundreds of Abud-Wak residents displaced this morning after two militias engaged gun battle in the town.

The fighting erupted after community police formed by the elders, tried to maintain peace and security of the town which prompted confrontation with armed men.

A resident in the town told Goobjoog News that the war has claimed lives five people mostly from both sides and the brawl is still underway.

Elders are doing efforts to calm down the tensions and called on the sides to cease fire immediately.

On 21st this month Forces loyal to armed group Ahlu Sunna Wal Jamaah have entered the town of Abudwak, Galgudud region and taken control.

An official from the group Hassan Gobe Warsame has told Goobjoog News that his forces seized the city without a fight after local fighters abandoned the city in the face of imminent confrontation.

However government administration of Abudwak has refuted claims that Ahlu Sunna fighters have captured the city. They maintain that the city is still under their control.

Abudwak mayor Hareri Hassan Barre who spoke to Goobjoog News said that local forces are in the city and manning all important government premises.

“We reached a consensus among ourselves to safeguard our security by setting aside some 800 armed men to guard the city. Claims from those who are in Dhusamareb that they have taken over the city is falsehood,” said the Mayor.