Clashes in Da’awaley village on the Ethiopian-Somaliland border resulted in over ten deaths and numerous injuries, involving clan militias and police forces. The Somaliland Minister condemned the actions as a massacre, accusing the Liyu Police of targeting civilians and abducting mediators. This violence stems from longstanding land disputes between the Ogaden and Isaaq clans, exacerbating an already volatile situation.
On Wednesday, deadly clashes erupted in Da’awaley village, situated along the border between Ethiopia and Somaliland, resulting in the deaths of over ten individuals and leaving many others injured. The conflict involved armed confrontations primarily between clan militias and regional state forces, heightening existing tensions in the disputed territory. It has been reported that the Somali Regional State Liyu Police, alongside Ogaden clan militia, conducted an early morning operation against the Isaaq/Arab clan militia in Da’awaley, which tragically resulted in the loss of civilian lives, including those of prominent clan elders and children.
The Minister of Internal Security for Somaliland, Abdalle Mohamed Arab, vehemently condemned the actions committed during these clashes, referring to them as a “massacre.” He expressed profound concern over the indiscriminate targeting of innocent civilians, specifically pastoralist communities, which he characterized as a significant violation of human rights and principles of governance. Furthermore, Minister Arab reported the abduction of traditional elders from Somaliland who had traveled to Da’awaley for peaceful mediation, labeling this act as a serious breach of international norms. Local media and social platforms have depicted alarming images of homes being destroyed and looted, highlighting the dire humanitarian consequences faced by the residents.
In light of the ongoing violence, authorities from the Ethiopian government have reportedly closed the border region. Tensions between the Ogaden/Darood clan and the Isaaq/Arab clan have emerged primarily from territorial disputes over rural areas claimed by both entities, exacerbating the conflict and resulting in extensive suffering for the local populace. Representation from the Somali Regional State government remains minimal, with recent statements from the police commission alleging that their forces were engaged by “terrorist groups.”
This tragic situation in Da’awaley serves as a sobering reminder of the complex socio-political dynamics in the Horn of Africa, emphasizing the urgent need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms and accountability for those involved in the violence.
The ongoing conflict along the Ethiopian-Somaliland border is rooted in historical clan rivalries and territorial disputes, particularly between the Ogaden/Darood and Isaaq/Arab clans. This dispute has manifested violently over the years, creating cycles of retaliation that further destabilize the region. Recent escalations, such as the events in Da’awaley, have drawn attention to the severe humanitarian impacts of these clashes and the need for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.
In summary, the recent violent clashes in Da’awaley have underscored an urgent humanitarian crisis along the Ethiopian-Somaliland border. The escalation in violence, leading to multiple civilian casualties and the abduction of clan elders, raises significant concerns over human rights violations. As tensions escalate, it highlights the necessity for accountability, effective conflict resolution, and protection for vulnerable communities caught in this ongoing struggle.
Original Source: hornobserver.com
