Mogadishu (Somalistandard) – Amnesty International, a global human rights organization, has expressed concern over the ongoing conflict in Las Anod, a city in southern Somaliland, which it says is taking a heavy toll on civilians.
According to the organization’s report, released on Thursday, over 100 people have been killed and more than 600 injured, with dozens of civilians among the casualties in the fighting between Somaliland security forces and armed fighters affiliated with the Dhulbahante clan.
The report also highlights that Somaliland security forces have indiscriminately shelled the town, causing damage to hospitals, schools, and mosques, and killing and injuring innocent civilians.
Tens of thousands of people have been displaced as a result of the violence, with between 154,000 to 203,000 people forced to flee to neighboring towns and villages, while others crossed the border into Ethiopia.
The situation has been worsened by the ongoing drought in the region, which has created a humanitarian crisis.
As a result, humanitarian groups have called for urgent assistance for those affected by the conflict, particularly women, children, and older people who are the most vulnerable.
Amnesty International has called for an independent investigation into all human rights and humanitarian law violations to ensure accountability for those responsible and reparation for victims.
The organization has also urged all parties involved in the conflict to cease indiscriminate attacks, commit to protecting civilians, and respect the rules of international humanitarian law. Additionally, it has called for unrestricted access to civilians in need of assistance in Las Anod and other affected areas.
The report is based on interviews with 37 people in Las Anod, including victims, victims’ relatives, witnesses, doctors, and humanitarian workers, as well as an analysis of casualty numbers from five local hospitals in Las Anod and reports from the media, NGOs, and the Somaliland government.
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