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Protest erupts in Burao over unconfirmed reports of Las Anod prisoner release
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    Thursday May 15, 2025


    Protesters block a main road and burn tires during a demonstration in Burao, Somaliland

    Hargeisa (HOL) — Dozens of residents took to the streets of Burao on Thursday morning, protesting rumours circulating on social media that the Somaliland government may release prisoners captured during last year’s war in Las Anod.

    Protesters burned tires, blocked major roads, and clashed with security forces who tried to disperse them. Many demanded that Somaliland first secure the release of its own citizens reportedly detained in Laascaanood by SSC-Khaatumo before releasing any prisoners it holds. “No prisoners should be freed until ours are brought back,” one protester said.

    The source of the reports remains unclear, with no official confirmation from Somaliland authorities. So far, only independent voices online have suggested the government is considering a release.

    The unrest follows a recent statement by Saleebaan Mahmuud Adan, Speaker of Somaliland’s House of Elders, who proposed that the government release all prisoners in its custody. However, he opposed directly negotiating with SSC-Khaatumo, warning that such talks would lower Somaliland’s political standing. Instead, he called for traditional elders from Ethiopia’s Somali Region to help mediate any future prisoner exchange.

    SSC-Khaatumo, which claims to represent the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions, has consistently demanded equal-status negotiations and mutual prisoner swaps with Somaliland. It also insists Somaliland withdraws from contested areas before reaching a lasting resolution.

    The Las Amod conflict erupted in early 2023 and has remained a flashpoint in northern Somalia. The fighting between Somaliland forces and SSC-Khaatumo has displaced tens of thousands and deepened political rifts between the two sides.

    As of Thursday, Somaliland authorities had not issued a statement in response to the Burao protest or the viral reports of a potential prisoner release.

     





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