Following eight months of fierce warfare in the town of Las Anod between Somaliland and SSC troops, the SSC-Khatumo administration has proclaimed a cease-fire in the areas of Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn, together known as SCC-Khatumo.
According to a statement issued on Monday, the administration notified the Federal Government of Somalia, the international community, and the Somali people of the end of “Somaliland’s war of aggression.” They claimed to have preserved their personal dignity as well as Somalia’s sovereignty.
The SSC-Khatumo government declared a strategic retreat of their soldiers from Las Anod, allowing the return of displaced persons, and implementing social support activities in order to restore peace in the afflicted communities.
Furthermore, the administration vowed to treat inmates in accordance with Islamic law, Somali culture, and world norms, ensuring their rights are protected.
Individuals responsible for war crimes committed within the SSC-Khatumo regions are presently in the custody of security and judicial services and will face punishment, according to the statement.
Additionally, weaponry acquired from Somaliland on August 25, 2023, including tanks, artillery, and heavy armaments, would be delivered to SSC defence soldiers and displayed.
The SSC-Khatumo government indicated a wish to strengthen collaboration on commerce, security, and other common concerns while living peacefully, while emphasising their commitment to preserving Somaliland’s borders and abstaining from infringing on other clans’ land.
They did, however, issue a warning against the Somaliland administration’s distribution of supplies and munitions, emphasising that any assaults would not be permitted.
The African Union, the United Nations, and the European Union have all strongly denounced the recent escalation of hostilities between the Somali army and local rebels in Las Anod, a town in northern Somalia controlled by Somaliland.
The partners encouraged all sides to commit to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, emphasising the need of stopping fighter mobilisation and supply and weaponry provision.
The battle in Las Anod, which has displaced hundreds of people, began on February 6 when local clan chiefs announced their independence from Somaliland, confirming that the Somali government now administers the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn areas.