Over Ten Killed in Violent Clashes on Ethiopian-Somaliland Border

More than ten people have been killed and many injured in violent clashes in Da’awaley village along the Ethiopian-Somaliland border. The conflict, fueled by land disputes between Ogaden/Darood and Isaaq/Arab clans, involved regional police forces targeting clan militias. Somaliland’s Minister condemned the actions, labeling them a massacre, and called for accountability amid rising tensions and human rights violations.

HARGEISA, Somaliland (HORN OBSERVER) – Violent clashes erupted in Da’awaley village on Wednesday, resulting in over ten fatalities and numerous injuries amid ongoing tensions along the Ethiopian-Somaliland border. The conflict involved regional state forces and clan militias, predominantly the Somali Regional State Liyu Police and the Ogaden clan militia, attacking the Isaaq/Arab clan militia.

The violence has led to tragic civilian casualties, with reports indicating that clan elders and children were among the deceased. Somaliland’s Minister of Internal Security, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, condemned the brutal assault, calling it a “massacre.” He accused the Liyu Police of targeting innocent pastoralists and violating human rights principles. Notably, he highlighted the abduction of traditional elders who attempted to mediate the conflict, which he classified as a serious infringement of international norms.

Images circulating on social media reveal widespread destruction, with homes reported to be looted and burned as residents evacuated. While local media indicates the border has been closed by Ethiopian authorities, the Somali Regional State police commission claimed their forces were assaulted by “terrorist groups.” The escalating violence can be traced back to a land dispute between the Ogaden/Darood and Isaaq/Arab clans, both asserting claims over the region’s rural areas.

The ongoing tensions along the Ethiopian-Somaliland border are deeply rooted in clan rivalries, particularly surrounding land ownership disputes. The Ogaden/Darood and Isaaq/Arab clans, both ethnic Somali groups, have conflicting claims over territories in the region, leading to recurrent violence. The involvement of regional state forces alongside clan militias complicates the conflict, as local authorities often struggle to impose order and maintain peace amid rising hostilities. The recent clashes highlight the fragility of security and governance in this contested area.

In summary, the recent violent clashes in Da’awaley village represent a significant escalation in the conflicts over land and clan identity along the Ethiopian-Somaliland border. With numerous casualties, including civilians, and accusations of human rights abuses, the situation remains tense. Calls for accountability and justice from Somaliland’s officials underscore the urgent need for a resolution to these longstanding disputes to prevent further loss of life and restore peace in the region.

Original Source: hornobserver.com