Security Forces that are operating in Awdal and Salel regions in western of Somaliland successfully seized combat vehicles and weapons held by the warring clans involved in the recent inter-clan clashes that took place in those areas.
They presented to the local media some of the combat vehicles after they carried out military security operations, noting that the civilians would not be permitted to illegally possess weapons and combat vehicles.
Somaliland Military Command further highlighted that they have ordered the security forces to take firm actions against anyone who brandishes weapons or attempt to reignite the inter-clan conflict in the western regions of Somaliland. The security operations were conducted after the warring parties in Awdal and Salel regions have violated a recently reached peace agreement which stipulated that the ceasefire be upheld and that actions likely to trigger a resumption of hostiles be avoided.
The agreement stipulates that the security forces are given the responsibility to carry out security measures in order to ensure the peace, and simultaneously use force against anyone found with weapons or accused of instigating the conflict.
The inter-clan skirmishes broke out in the western regions of Somaliland in November, 2025, following a dispute over an event the Issa Clan wished to hold in the city of Zeila for the book “Xeer Ciise”—an event opposed by the other clan inhabiting in the city. Ever since the conflict escalated into armed clashes, intervention between the warring parties has taken place several times, and the peace agreements to end the conflict have been reached.
However, the ceasefire has reportedly collapsed and clashes have resumed.
The new security operations conducted by Somaliland’s security forces are part of the ongoing efforts to disarm the warring sides and ensure that peace agreements reached are genuinely implemented.
Somaliland government has previously stated that it will not tolerate anyone attempting to incite the inter-clan conflict or illegally possessing weapons and combat vehicles.
