The Somaliland government has issued new directives to strengthen security in the Awdal and Selel regions, banning war-related mobilization or the carrying of weapons in these areas after 2:00 PM on Sunday, September 20.
The State Minister for Interior and Security, Abdirashid Mohamed Ahmed (Magaalo), stated that from that time onwards, the presence of any organized or armed groups, as well as individuals carrying weapons, is prohibited.
The State Minister instructed all security forces to take legal action against anyone carrying illegal weapons. He stated that weapons confiscated from individuals lacking legal authorization would be handed over to the security forces, while the individuals themselves would be referred to judicial authorities.
Abdirashid Magaalo further stated that anyone who engages in armed conflict against the security forces—and is subsequently injured or killed—cannot claim compensation from the government.
Additionally, the government called upon traditional elders and the residents of Awdal and Selel to cooperate with security forces in maintaining order and preventing actions that could trigger fresh unrest. These directives come at a time of recent tensions and clashes between segments of the communities in the Awdal and Selel regions, despite various peace agreements and reconciliation efforts having been announced. The Somaliland government has previously stated that peace-building efforts for these regions are underway.
