Gunmen kill two civilians in Puntland capital Garowe

Two civilians were shot dead by unidentified gunmen on Saturday night in Garowe, the administrative capital of Somalia’s semi-autonomous Puntland region.

One of the victims was reportedly a hotel security guard, while the other was said to be his relative, according to local sources.

Hotel management said the assailants shot both men in the head and back before fleeing the scene. The attack took place near key government institutions, including the Nugaal Regional Court and the governor’s administrative headquarters.

The location of the incident, close to government offices, has raised alarm among residents over the boldness of the attackers.

Puntland police said investigations are ongoing and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

Relatives of the victims told local media they have refused to bury the bodies until the authorities bring those responsible to justice.

Garowe has long been regarded as one of the more stable cities in Somalia. The latest killings have shocked residents and prompted renewed calls for strengthened security measures.