GAROWE (Kaab TV) – At least 5 people died in a battle that took place in Dhahar town in the Sanaag region last Tuesday, involving Puntland forces and local militias.
Eyewitnesses told Kaab TV that Puntland security forces, who were in the Qol area on the outskirts of the town, were securing the area after reports emerged of militants operating in Dhahar.
A battle then broke out between Puntland forces and the local militants.
Four of the deceased were reportedly security forces, while the fifth was one of the militants fighting against the forces.
The situation is calm this Wednesday morning, and Dhahar town is now under the control of Puntland forces.
Civilians reportedly fled the town yesterday to its outskirts, with tensions remaining high.
A Kaab TV reporter stated that this Wednesday, local clan elders issued a peace appeal, urging both sides to stop the fighting and allow civilians to return to their homes.
However, the civilian population is still absent from the town, which remains largely deserted.