Armed clan militia storms Galkayo prison to free death row inmates

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Friday January 10, 2025

FILE - Security forces stand guard at the entrance of the central prison in Galkayo, Puntland.

Galkayo (HOL) — Armed clan militiamen stormed the central prison in Galkayo early Friday morning, targeting the Puntland-administered section in an attempt to free inmates sentenced to death.

The assault marks the latest escalation in clan-related conflicts that continue to undermine security in Somalia's Mudug region.

The attackers clashed briefly with correctional officers, resulting in one fatality. It remains unclear whether the militia succeeded in freeing their targets. Puntland authorities have yet to issue an official statement, leaving questions about the prison's current status and the fate of the inmates.

Sources suggest the attack was an effort to liberate individuals convicted by the Puntland Supreme Court of murdering businessman Ahmed Tahliil, who was well-known in the region. The court recently sentenced the perpetrators to death and lengthy prison terms.

The Mudug region, straddling the border between Puntland and Galmudug, remains a flashpoint for clan-based conflicts and militant activity. Analysts say incidents like these reflect deeper challenges in establishing law and order in one of Somalia's most volatile areas.

The recent attack has reignited concerns over the effectiveness of security measures at Galkayo's central prison, highlighting ongoing weaknesses in Puntland's detention system. The facility's troubled history of escapes, including a 2024 jailbreak in which several militants fled, has raised questions about the security apparatus. While there is no indication of Al-Shabaab's involvement in this latest incident, the attack highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in Puntland's detention facilities.

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