Monday December 16, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali Ministry of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Reconciliation has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities between Somaliland army forces and SSC-Khatumo forces in Erigavo, Sanag region.
In a statement released on Monday, the Ministry urged local administrations, traditional elders, scholars, women, and intellectuals to advocate for an end to the conflict and work collectively towards peace and stability.
The fighting, which began on Friday, has resulted in significant casualties, with over ten people reported killed. Residents of the town confirmed the ongoing clashes have left both sides with heavy losses.
Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, in his first cabinet meeting since unveiling his new administration, reiterated his commitment to peace and dialogue. "The government is ready to engage in dialogue with all parties to foster unity and address grievances," he stated, emphasizing the need for reconciliation in his region.
Erigavo has been a recurring hotspot for conflict. In August 2024, violent clashes erupted near the Goof settlement, approximately 40 kilometres from the city, resulting in nine deaths. Residents linked the incident to a revenge killing that occurred earlier in Erigavo.