Wednesday July 16, 2025
Las Anod (HOL) — At least four soldiers were killed and ten others wounded on Tuesday in heavy fighting between Puntland security forces and clan militias loyal to politicians from the Sanaag region in Dhahar district, located in the Haylan region.
The clashes reportedly began after Puntland forces, particularly members of the Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF), moved into Dhahar to dismantle newly established security checkpoints. The operation triggered several hours of fierce gunfire, forcing civilians to flee the area, according to local sources.
In response, Puntland’s Minister of Interior, Abdi Farah Saeed Juxa, blamed the Federal Government of Somalia for fueling the conflict. He alleged that government-sponsored militias had intentionally destabilized a previously peaceful area.
“We strongly condemn the Federal Government for fomenting conflict, social unrest, and instability in Puntland using international funds. This is a major setback to our counterterrorism efforts,” said Minister Juxa.
The situation in Dhahar remains tense. The violence coincides with an ongoing high-level conference in Las Anod aimed at finalizing the structure and governance of the SSC-Khaatumo regional administration.