MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s army bolstered by Galmudug regional forces on Tuesday surrounded a town under the control of Ahlu Sunnah fighters in Galgadud region, weeks after the Sufi group had taken it following deadly clashes.
Residents have fled the town due to fear of being caught in fighting that could erupt at any time in the town of Guriel in central Somalia after allied forces had completed preparations for a new showdown with Sufi fighters.
Somalia’s international partners, in a meeting held this week, warned regional president Ahmed Qoorqoor not to rush into war and explore other avenues in which current tensions could be broght to an end.
Former regional security minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi said the offensive is aimed at “undermining” the electoral process and is part of attempts to further extend president Farmajo’s stay in office.
Troops led by the town’s former adminstrator Anas Abdi Moalim, who had been stationed in Odale village, arrived in Hareele area, a few kilometers outside Guriel.
Government troops and Galmudug regional forces have also moved from Gowd Wiil village to an area just 7km north of the town while Ahlu Sunnah fighters strengthen defenses to be parry possible attacks.
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