Wednesday 18, Dec,2024 {HMC} Intense fighting broke out on Tuesday afternoon between Somaliland forces and SSC-Khaatumo forces in a rural area of the southern Sanaag region, leaving both sides with heavy casualties.
Both factions have displayed prisoners captured during the clashes, although the official number of casualties remains undisclosed.
The SSC-Khaatumo forces reportedly attempted to seize control of areas in Sanaag, including Erigavo. The conflict follows previous clashes in Las Anod and other contested regions in Sool, Sanaag, and Togdheer.
The Somali Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Reconciliation on Monday reiterated its call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging local leaders, elders, scholars, women, and intellectuals to unite to promote peace and stability.
The Ministry emphasized the need for collective efforts to resolve the conflict, which has claimed significant lives, including over ten deaths since fighting began on Friday.
The ongoing violence highlights the persistent tension between Somaliland and SSC-Khaatumo forces, with each side accusing the other of instigating renewed hostilities. Residents have reported that the clashes have left both groups suffering substantial losses, further destabilizing the region.
