The Puntland Police Force has provided details of a clash that took place today in Garowe city, between two forces, which resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and the injury of five others on both sides.
A press release from the Puntland Police Force Command said that a planned operation was carried out to seize a bus that the Police said had previously been stolen from the Puntland Audit Office.
According to the press release, the seized vehicle was being driven by an armed group that the Police described as militias posing as security forces, formerly known as the PSF.
The Police said that the vehicle was intended to be sold illegally in South Galkayo, Galmudug, but was seized at the East Control Point in Garowe, while it was guarded by another vehicle carrying armed gunmen.
According to the Police, when the security forces tried to stop the vehicle, the gunmen opened fire on the forces, causing death and injury.
“The Puntland Police Force, fulfilling its constitutional duty to ensure security and uphold the law, responded swiftly, seizing both vehicles and the individuals involved in this heinous act,” the statement said.
The police added that all suspects would be brought to justice, stressing that no one would be above the law.
“Anyone who attempts to disrupt public security or abuse the power of the government will be held accountable,” the Puntland Police said.
There has been no immediate comment from the PSF regarding the alleged theft of the vehicle from the Puntland Audit Office.
However, this incident is feared to reignite tensions between Puntland and the PSF, who have previously fought against it.
