ERIGAVO (SD) – The Somaliland government has purchased the vehicles and weapons previously owned by the local militia forces stationed in the Sanag region. In contrast, the militia members have been sent for military training.

Defense Minister Mohamed Yusuf Ali stated that the locations previously occupied by clan-based militias have been handed over to military forces equipped with the vehicles taken from the local militias, which have been repainted with the national flag.

“Where 200 were stationed, 400 have been deployed, equipped with their vehicles and those taken from the local militias. Each vehicle has been repainted with the national flag and returned to its original location,” said Minister Ali.

The integrated militia forces have been sent to training centers, where they will undergo military training and be incorporated into various branches of the armed forces.

The government reportedly reimbursed the clans for the vehicles and weapons they handed over, ensuring that the military now fully owns the equipment previously held by the clans.

This step is aimed at stabilizing the eastern regions of Somaliland, disarming the public, and fostering peaceful coexistence among the communities in these areas, according to the government.

The Defense Minister added that they will visit other regions where local militias are still active to complete the integration process.