MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – A fresh outbreak of intense fighting occurred on Sunday on the outskirts of Laascaanood, the capital of the Sool Region, involving Somaliland forces and Dhulbahante clan fighters, according to local sources.
Residents reported hearing the exchange of fire, including the use of heavy weaponry, emanating from the battlefields surrounding the area.
While details about casualties remain unknown, it has been reported that Somaliland forces have been launching artillery attacks on neighborhoods within Laascaanood.
Both sides have been actively preparing for conflict, with Somaliland seeking to retake Laascaanood, while the Dhulbahante clan fighters aim to capture Gooja-Adde, the primary base of the Somaliland army situated on the outskirts of the city.
This recent clash follows closely on the heels of a statement by the United Nations Security Council, issued two weeks ago, urging Somaliland to immediately withdraw its forces from Laascaanood.
The Security Council called upon all parties to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that could provoke violence or contribute to an escalation of tensions.
The Laascaanood conflict, which began on February 6, has resulted in over 100 civilian casualties and the displacement of nearly 200,000 individuals, according to humanitarian organisations.
Somaliland claims Laascaanood as part of its territory, having seceded from the rest of Somalia, while the Dhulbahante clan advocates for unity with Somalia.