Dusamareb (Dawan Africa) – Two civilians were killed and three others injured following a clash between the Somali Police Force and armed militias in Abud Wak, a town in the Galmudug region, on Saturday. The conflict is said to have erupted over a land dispute after a police station, recently refurbished, caused concerns among local businesspeople, who feared they might be displaced from the area.
According to the Galgadud Regional Police Commander, the militia group attacked the police station, prompting the police to defend themselves. The commander stated that all available police forces in the town were quickly mobilized to the station to contain the situation and minimize the damage. He also urged the militias to halt the fighting and resolve the matter through dialogue.
"The region faces challenges due to weak state presence, with local conflicts often influenced by clan-based dynamics," the police commander explained.
In response to the violence, Somalia's Minister of Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Fartag), called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the resolution of the dispute peacefully. The minister emphasized that those responsible for the violence would be held accountable.
“I urge the people of Caabud Waaq, including religious leaders, elders, and other community figures, to help mediate and resolve this conflict. We will hold accountable anyone who has instigated this violence,” Minister Fartag said.
The minister also urged regional security forces and the Galmudug administration to cooperate closely in restoring peace and preventing further escalation. He concluded by praying for peace and unity among the Somali people.
