Hargeisa (KAAB TV) – The government of Somaliland has, for the first time, publicly confirmed that discussions and negotiations are underway to secure the release of its soldiers who were captured during the recent conflict in Lasanod, the administrative capital of the Sool region in northeastern Somalia.
Speaking to reporters in Hargeisa, Somaliland’s Minister of Defense, Mohamed Yusuf Ali (Ilkacase), announced that the government is actively working through multiple channels to ensure the safe return of the detained soldiers.
While he declined to disclose specific details of the negotiations, the minister emphasized that the process is ongoing and that the government is exploring all possible options.
“The process to release the prisoners is underway. The government is committed to doing everything possible to bring back our captured soldiers. There are several channels now open to us, but I cannot disclose the details at this time,” said Minister Ilkacase during the press briefing.
The minister’s statement marks the first official acknowledgment by Somaliland authorities that talks are taking place regarding the captured personnel, signaling a potential thaw in the tense standoff that has persisted since the outbreak of hostilities in Lasanod.
The conflict in Lasanod—which began in late 2022 and escalated throughout 2023—pitted Somaliland’s security forces against local fighters aligned with the SSC-Khatumo movement, a group that seeks autonomy for the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions under the Federal Government of Somalia.
The clashes resulted in heavy casualties on both sides and led to the capture of several Somaliland soldiers, particularly following the battle for Goja’adde, one of Somaliland’s major military bases in the area.
Sources close to the negotiations indicate that efforts to secure the release of the prisoners involve community elders, religious leaders, and regional mediators, although no official confirmation has been made about who is leading or facilitating the talks.
The situation in Lasanod remains fragile, with humanitarian organizations continuing to report displacement and humanitarian challenges as a result of the prolonged conflict.
Analysts believe that any progress in prisoner negotiations could help pave the way for broader dialogue and potential de-escalation between the opposing sides.
For now, the Somaliland government has reiterated its willingness to engage in peaceful means to resolve the matter and bring home its detained soldiers.