Police, drug gang exchange fire in Galkaayo, five injured

GOOBJOOG NEWS|GALKAYO, PL: Three police officers from the Puntland administration and two drug gang members were last night wounded after the two sides clashed in Kabis camp, northern Galkayo.

The shootout took place during a police operation to weed out illegal drug peddlers in the area where armed groups engaged police with gunfire.

The Police Command in Mudug said that the police managed to overpower the gang and arrested nine members of the armed group. They also recovered weapons, vehicles and assorted drugs in the gang’s hideout, local police said adding that nine members of the drug ring were arrested.

“Smuggling drugs is closely linked to the enemy who is attacking peace, stability, development and the rule of law, but the security forces are working day and night to eliminate and target individuals who are involved in such acts,” said the Police Commander.

Police seized bottles of alcohol, riffles and a car suspected to have been used by the drug ring.