HARGEISA (KAAB TV) – This week, Buq Dharkayn village in the Sool region was attacked by heavily gunmen from SSC-Khaatumo, leading to the displacement of local families.
Fleeing residents reported that their homes were set ablaze by assailants believed to be affiliated with the SSC-Khaatumo.
Located on the border between Somaliland and SSC-Khaatumo, Buq Dharkayn is inhabited by clans from both the Isaaq and Dhulbahante communities.
The attack occurred on Monday when heavily armed gunmen stormed the village, capturing it. Social media videos depicted the gunmen burning down houses.
Both SSC-Khaatumo and Somaliland authorities have yet to issue statements regarding the incident.
This escalation follows recent threats from both Somaliland and SSC-Khaatumo to launch attacks against each other.
Last week, SSC-Khaatumo unveiled several hundred newly trained forces in the Sool region, expressing intentions to seize control of Sanaag, a disputed territory claimed by Somaliland, Puntland, and SSC-Khaatumo.
Sanaag includes the strategically important coastal town of Laasqoray, which could potentially grant control over access to the Red Sea.