Puntland has accused Somalia’s Federal Government of transporting weapons into the city of Galkayo, alleging the arms are intended to destabilize the regional administration and undermine security in Puntland-controlled areas.
Puntland Deputy Minister of Security Abdirahman Yusuf Dujaana, speaking to Radio Galkayo, said the regional government has evidence that the weapons were brought into the city and are currently located in the Galmudug-administered side of Galkayo.
“The city of Galkayo has received weapons intended to destabilize Puntland’s security, and we will take the necessary security measures to protect ourselves,” Dujaana said, adding that Puntland is prepared to respond to what it described as a security threat posed by the Federal Government.
The Somali Federal Government has not responded to Puntland’s allegations or reports claiming that weapons were transported into Galkayo.
The accusations come amid escalating tensions between Puntland and Mogadishu. Just days earlier, forces loyal to Puntland and federal-aligned troops clashed in the Laag area near Bosaso, further heightening concerns over the deteriorating security situation between the two sides.