Friday August 25, 2023
Las Anod (HOL) - In the midst of intense fighting on Friday between the Somaliland army and the SCC-Khatumo forces in Las Anod town, several Somaliland soldiers, including the commander of the 12th Battalion stationed in the Maragga area to the east of Las Anod, were captured by the SCC-Khatumo forces.
The SCC-Khatumo administration presented Commander Botaan and other prisoners of war to the public. Commander Botaan has been one of the most prominent Somaliland military figures since the onset of the Las Anod conflict eight months prior.
In the fierce confrontation today, the SSC-Khatumo forces took control of both the Gojacade and Maragga military bases, which are strategically located on the periphery of Las Anod town. In a display of their advances in the conflict, the SCC also showcased the military vehicles they had seized.
"We've successfully taken control of the Gojacade base. With Allah's blessings, we emerged victorious this morning. The Somaliland army has unfortunately fallen back towards the Goodi regions. We now stand at the central command base of the Somaliland army in the SCC territories," said a spokesperson for the SCC forces.
This incident represents the most significant casualties the Somaliland forces have faced since the beginning of the hostilities in the northern Somali city of Las Anod.