MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Puntland authorities have accused the Federal Government of Somalia of mobilizing clan militias loyal to Makhir State to attack Dhahar town as clashes continue in Sanaag region for a second day.
Fighting between Puntland security forces and the militias began on Tuesday and intensified into Wednesday, with reports of heavy clashes continuing into the night. Casualty figures remain unconfirmed.
In an official statement, Puntland condemned the federal government’s alleged involvement, accusing it of fueling violence and regional instability. The regional administration claims the move is designed to undermine its ongoing counter-terror operations against Al-Shabaab and ISIS militants in the Al Madow and Al Miskad mountain ranges.
The fighting coincides with a clan conference currently underway in Lasanod, where members of the Warsangeli, and Dhulbahante clans—primarily residing in the Sool and Sanaag regions—are discussing the formation of a new federal member state. Under Somalia’s constitution, a federal member state must comprise at least two regions. Elders from the Warsangeli and Dhulbahante clans have reportedly agreed to nominate eight representatives each to pursue the formation of a unified state.
Puntland, which administratively controls parts of the Sanaag region, views the initiative as an encroachment on its territorial authority and has vowed to oppose any such move by all means necessary.
Meanwhile, Somaliland authorities, who also claim jurisdiction over parts of Sool and Sanaag, have warned that the outcome of the Lasanod conference could further inflame tensions. The breakaway region, based in Hargeisa, still holds portions of eastern Sanaag, which are also claimed by the emerging SSC-Khatumo administration.
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