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Somaliland authorities have arrested several people in connection with the killing of two men in the Salal region, as security forces continue searching for other suspects believed to be involved in the attack. Police say the incident has shocked local communities and prompted a strong response from law enforcement.
The victims, identified as Yusuf Abdillaahi Hussein and Mustafa Jama Farah, were killed on January 18 in the Indho-Biraale area of Salal. According to the Somaliland Police Force, the two men were attacked and died at the scene. Investigators are still working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the killings, including what may have motivated the attackers.
Police spokesman Colonel Abdiasis Sheikh Ismail said officers acted quickly after the incident was reported. He confirmed that several suspects have already been arrested and are being questioned as part of the ongoing investigation. At the same time, security forces have launched operations in the surrounding areas to track down other individuals believed to have taken part in the crime.
“This was a serious and unacceptable act,” Col. Abdiasis told reporters. “The police force responded immediately, and arrests were made. Operations are still underway to ensure that everyone involved is brought to justice.”
He stressed that the authorities would not show leniency toward those responsible for the killings, making it clear that the case will be pursued through the legal system. “There will be no pardon for anyone who committed this crime,” he said. “We will take every possible step to arrest all suspects and ensure they face prosecution.”
While police have not yet shared details about why the two men were targeted, early reports suggest that armed attackers opened fire on them along a road in the Indho-Biraale area. Both victims reportedly died instantly from their injuries. Officials say it is too early to draw conclusions and that investigators are carefully gathering evidence and witness statements.
The Salal region is largely rural and is generally considered calm compared to other areas affected by insecurity. Incidents of this nature are rare, which has heightened concern among local residents and leaders. Authorities say the unusual nature of the attack is one of the reasons they are treating the case with urgency.
Col. Abdiasis described the killings as deeply troubling and out of character for the society in the region. He urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading rumors while investigations continue. He also called on the public to cooperate with security forces by sharing any information that could help identify additional suspects or clarify what happened.
“This incident has caused pain and concern, but we ask the public to trust the security agencies and the justice system,” he said. “Anyone with useful information should come forward. Public cooperation is essential in cases like this.”
Police have increased their presence in parts of Salal as investigations and security operations continue. Checkpoints and patrols have reportedly been stepped up to reassure residents and prevent further incidents. Authorities say these measures are temporary and aimed at maintaining stability while the search for remaining suspects continues.
As the investigation moves forward, police say they will provide updates when more confirmed information becomes available. For now, officials remain focused on completing arrests, establishing the facts, and ensuring accountability for the deaths of the two men.