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Tensions are rising in Somaliland after two civilians were killed by security forces in the Agabar area of Gabiley district. The deaths occurred during a protest against a local mining company, sparking outrage and renewed demonstrations in the capital, Hargeisa.
On Monday, dozens of residents from Hargeisa’s 150th neighborhood took to the streets to protest the incident, demanding justice for the victims and accountability from the government.
The violence reportedly began when local residents in Agabar staged a protest opposing the operations of a mining company in their area. Protesters expressed concerns over environmental damage and lack of community consultation. During the demonstration, tensions escalated, and security forces opened fire, killing two people. The incident quickly drew public condemnation, with many accusing the government of using excessive force against peaceful demonstrators.
In response to the killings, Somaliland President Muse Bihi Abdi announced the formation of a special committee to investigate the incident. Authorities also temporarily suspended the mining activities in Agabar to ease the situation. According to officials, a preliminary agreement was reached between the government and local residents to calm tensions and prevent further unrest.
However, residents say the government has not followed through on the promises made in the agreement. As a result, protests resumed on Monday in Hargeisa, with demonstrators calling for justice and expressing frustration over the lack of progress.
“It’s unacceptable and deeply regrettable that security forces respond to peaceful protests with gunfire,” said one protester, who spoke to reporters during the demonstration. Many shared the same sentiment, emphasizing that people have a right to express their concerns without fear of violence or retaliation.
Human rights advocates and local activists are now calling for urgent reforms within Somaliland’s police and security forces. They say better training is needed to ensure that law enforcement officers can handle protests in a peaceful and professional manner.
Critics argue that many members of the security leadership have military backgrounds and may lack the skills necessary to manage civilian protests. They are urging the government to prioritize public safety and de-escalation tactics during such situations.
“These tragic deaths could have been avoided,” said one advocate for police reform. “Security forces should protect civilians, not harm them.”
The incident has also drawn attention to the need for more transparent decision-making when it comes to natural resource projects in Somaliland. Community members in Agabar say they were not properly consulted before the mining operations began, leading to frustration and mistrust.
Protesters in Hargeisa say their demonstrations will continue until the government takes meaningful steps to address their concerns. They are demanding justice for the victims, accountability for those involved in the shooting, and a commitment to peaceful dialogue going forward.
The situation remains tense, but many hope that the renewed focus on police reform and community engagement will help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
For now, families in Agabar and Hargeisa are mourning their loss, and the public continues to demand answers and action from Somaliland’s leadership.