According to the eyewitness, heavy gunshots could be heard in several locations in the town as the Somaliland military and the local SSC forces are trying to keep their positions.

A press release by the Somaliland’s Ministry of Internal Affairs said their forces were attacked by the local groups supported alleging that the Puntland forces were backing them.

However, SSC elders on Monday denied such accusations saying that the local forces are fighting to liberate the Sool region from Somaliland.

Puntland authorities did not comment on the allegations raised by the Somaliland authorities.

Meanwhile, hospital sources are saying the death toll rose up to 40 since Monday when the war broke out in the disputed Laascaanood town.

Gunbattle in laasaanood town amid calls for peace and stability

Both Somaliland authorities and the Pro-SSC leaders have claimed victory in yesterday’s fight.