Somalia: Puntland forces carry out security operations in Galkayo 24 Jul 24, 2012 - 8:49:37 AM
GALKAYO, Somalia Jul 23 2012 (Garowe Online) – Puntland forces have been conducting security operations in Galkayo, the capital of Mudug region, Radio Garowe reports.
The operations according to police chief of Mudug region, Col. Jama Mohamed Ahmed who spoke to Radio Garowe, the operations have been to secure the city of Galkayo and to force out pirates active in the city.
“The forces are conducting operations that will improve the security of Galkayo whether the insecurity is caused by pirates or other factors, our forces are committed to securing the city of Galkayo,” said Col. Ahmed.
The forces clashed with alleged pirates on Sunday night that led to the death of one police officer and one alleged pirate.
The clashes sparked after the alleged pirates’ vehicle crashed into a police checkpoint and gunfire erupted, there were at least three people apprehended at the scene.
Col. Ahmed told Radio Garowe that the forces brought to Galkayo to secure the city were targeting groups that were attributing to the insecurity of the city and would ensure the safety of the people of Galkayo while doing so.
The Puntland government has beefed up security in the region of Mudug which had been the scene of kidnapping earlier this month.
Puntland have been pursuing kidnappers who took three Kenyan hostages near the town of Ba'adweyne, the kidnappers took the hostages to Hobyo a known pirate hub which is not under the Puntland jurisdiction.
GAROWE ONLINE
