Heavy fighting in Somalia’s Galkayo town, six killed – witnesses

Galka’yo – At least 6 people have been killed in heavy fighting in the central Somali town of Galkayo between forces allied with Puntland and its neighboring Galmudug state, witnesses said Sunday.

Battles involving trucks mounted with machine guns and anti-aircraft rockets erupted after an argument involving the construction of a new road by Galmudug state in the town, which was dismissed by Puntland forces.

Hundreds of residents have fled from their homes many Somalis fear that the new fighting could escalate to a full blown conflict, which may suck in other regional powers and destabilize the Horn of Africa nation.

Galkayo  is divided into two zones, where the northern portion forms part of Puntland state, while its southern part is governed by the Galmudug administration.

No comment could be reached from officials from Galmudug and its neighboring Puntland officials on the latest clashes. Somalidiasporanews will keep you posted for any more updates as they come.