An attack targets Somaliland troops in violence-hit Lasanod

Businesses have been closed for the second week, as the residents staged demonstrations to demand the withdrawal of the Somaliland troops who have been in control since 2007.

News Keydmedia Online
3 January 2023

LASANOD, Somalia - An attack took place last night in the city of Lasanod in the north of Somalia as deadly violence that claimed the lives of at least 20 people is intensifying

An eyewitness, speaking to Keydmedia Online by phone said that the attack by unknown gunmen targeted a Somaliland army base in the heart of the city, resulting in fatalities and injuries.

Face-to-face fighting ensued after the ambush attack, which lasted for about an hour. Many people fled the city in the past two days, fearing that the current situation will turn into a major war.

Businesses have been closed for the second week, as the residents staged demonstrations to demand the withdrawal of the Somaliland troops who have been in control since 2007.

Somali president Hassan Sheikh and the international community voiced alarm over the civilian shooting in the northern city and called for calm and restraint to avoid further bloodshed.

Puntland state said it will send troops to Lasanod for the rescue of the local people as Somaliland warned of an all-out war. However, innocent civilians bear the brunt of the current violence.

KEYDMEDIA English