Garowe (KAAB TV) – Puntland military forces stationed in the Galgala, Afurur, and Bali-Khadar areas of the Almadow mountain range have withdrawn from their positions and relocated to the Cowsane area in the Sanaag region.
The soldiers, who have reportedly staged a mutiny, stated their intent to participate in what they described as “the liberation of the city of Eerigabo,” claiming that their communities there have been forcibly displaced.
Sources indicate that the troops were angered by a recent statement from Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, which was widely interpreted as expressing support for Somaliland’s independence. The statement notably failed to address the plight of displaced Puntland citizens in Eerigabo, further inflaming tensions within the military ranks.
The mutinous troops believe President Deni opposes their push for military action over the Eerigabo issue. Instead, he reportedly favors a negotiated solution between Puntland and Somaliland to resolve the crisis and facilitate the return of displaced residents.
Additional reports suggest that unpaid salaries and unfulfilled financial promises also contributed to the soldiers’ decision to abandon the frontlines.
Meanwhile, efforts are reportedly underway to persuade the troops to return to their original military commands and resume their duties.