Hargeisa May 31, 2023 (SD) – Somaliland has announced that it has successfully thwarted an armed attack, which they described as a terrorist act, earlier today.

A press release issued by the Ministry of Defense, clarifying the situation to the international community, stated that six individuals belonging to the armed groups fighting in Sool were involved in the planned terrorist attack in the village of Sii-xawle.

Sii-xawle is located between Yagoori and Samkaab, within the Sool region, and is near the city of Las Anod, which has seen clashes between the Somaliland forces and the local SSC militia.

“Two of the individuals who attempted to carry out the attack lost their lives, while the other four were captured at the scene,” stated the press release issued by Somaliland’s Ministry of Defense.

As stated in the communication from Somaliland, the incident was a highly concerning and deliberate attack.

“We call upon the international community to support us in the fight against terrorism and extremism. Collaboration and coordination between nations are crucial in our joint efforts to overcome this shared threat.”

Lastly, the statement mentioned that investigations into the incident will be carried out, with updates to be shared with the people of Somaliland and the international community.

On the other hand, SSC-Khaatumo has stated that two civilians were killed by the Somaliland forces during the incidents that took place in the village of Sii-xawle in the Sool region.

The Chairman of the SSC Committee, Abdirisaq Mohamed Xasan Fallaalug, announced that two individuals, who were civilian residents, were killed by landmines planted by the Somaliland forces.

“The SNM armed group caused damages to the outskirts of Sii-xawle, and landmines were planted there. These mines claimed the lives of two young men who were grazing animals in the area. The explosion also killed livestock,” Fallaalug said.

The Somaliland forces were criticized for violating human rights, as Fallaalug mentioned that these landmines were banned worldwide, as he stated. He claimed that the Somaliland forces deliberately targeted civilians.

“We urge the international community to take action and hold the SNM armed group accountable for this unacceptable act,” Fallaalug added.

He also called upon the people to be vigilant and cautious when moving around the city centers to avoid such tragic incidents.