Two killed, six injured in clashes between Puntland police and PSF in Garowe

At least two people were killed and six others injured in clashes between Puntland police and Puntland Security Force (PSF) personnel in Garowe, the capital of Puntland, on Saturday.

Security officials said the fighting erupted when police at a checkpoint stopped two vehicles carrying PSF members traveling from Bari region towards Mudug. Puntland police said they were conducting a planned operation to recover a bus allegedly stolen from the Office of the Auditor General, accusing PSF forces of being behind the theft.

According to police, the armed men escorting the vehicle opened fire when security personnel attempted to stop them, triggering an exchange of gunfire. The injured, including personnel from both sides, were taken to hospital, with some reported to be in critical condition.

Authorities said investigations are underway and that those involved will be held accountable. “No one is above the law. Any attempt to disrupt public security or misuse government resources will face consequences,” Puntland police said in a statement.

The PSF, originally established with U.S. support, has played a key role in operations against Al-Shabaab and Islamic State-linked militants in Puntland. However, tensions between the force and Puntland’s leadership have led to periodic clashes, particularly over control of security operations.

The latest confrontation underscores ongoing security challenges in Puntland, where disputes between armed factions have at times escalated into violence.