HARGEISA (SD) – The Somaliland government stated that today’s clash in the Buqdharkayn area between Somaliland forces and SSC Khatumo forces began after SSC Khatumo militias attempted to raid livestock.

“Armed militias affiliated with the breakaway Khatumo group attacked civilians grazing their livestock in the Buqdharkayn area, aiming to steal their animals,” read a statement from Somaliland’s Ministry of Interior.

Somaliland claimed that local residents fiercely defended themselves against what they described as a brutal attack by armed groups, inflicting heavy losses on the attackers. The statement also accused SSC Khatumo forces of threatening regional security.

“While it is unfortunate that Firdhiye [SSC-Khatumo leader] seeks to spill blood for political gain during the holy month of Ramadan and sow discord among brotherly communities, Somaliland remains committed to peaceful coexistence in the region,” the Ministry of Interior’s statement added.

On the other hand, the SSC Khatumo administration accused Somaliland forces of initiating the attack on their positions, as stated in a release from SSC Khatumo’s Ministry of Security. SSC Khatumo labeled Somaliland as a separatist group posing a threat to regional stability.

The Buqdharkayn area, which has previously witnessed clashes between Somaliland and SSC Khatumo forces, has been relatively calm recently. These clashes come as the Somaliland government implements plans to integrate clan-based militias, such as the SSB and G36, into its formal security structure.