| Description |
Security forces from the local authorities of Galkacyo North and members of the Sheeqaal clan were engaged in an armed clash in Bulo-Basley IDP settlement in Galkacyo North on 23/12. The fighting reportedly started after security forces of the local authorities had moved in the settlement to mark and register dwellings located in Puntland (the settlement is on the border between Puntland and Galmudug) for taxation purpose. The exercise was conducted mostly in the part of the settlement occupied by the Sheeqaal clan, an area that "non-Puntlanders" - mostly sheeqaal and Dir - were ordered to evacuate by the local authorities. Members of the Sheeqaal clan were reported to have opposed the order and to have encouraged other residents to do the same. The confrontation degenerated in an open fight that lasted for about 1,5 hour. Two persons were killed and two others injured (losses were equally balanced between the two sides). Around 50 families are reported to have left the settlement due to the fighting and to have resettled in Bulo Noto, Bulo Jawaan and Bulo Hiraan in Israac Village. Tension remains high in the area but elders from the Shiiqaal clan and representatives of the local authorities are engaged in talks to resolve the crisis. |
