Forces from Somaliland and neighbouring semi-autonomous Puntland clashed on Monday over their disputed Sanag region that has been the source of conflict for years.

According to witnesses, fighting erupted at Bodda-Cadde area in Sanaag Region and later spread to nearby areas of Dahar region.

Both Puntland and Somaliland accused each other of starting the clashes.

So far the number of casualties is yet to be known as the fighting is still going on. The clashes erupted a day after Puntland Security Minister vowed no to allow Somaliland conduct voting registration in the Sanag Region.

Speaking to the BBC, the commander of the Somaliland army, Ismail Shaqalle Isman said his troops captured three armored vehicles from Puntland forces.

He added that they have also taken six captives from Puntland including Mohamed An-Jeeh who is member of Puntland parliament.

Both Somaliland and Puntland are in the north of Somalia and have enjoyed relative peace, while the south of the country has been mired in anarchy since the 1991.