Monday October 14, 2024
FILE - A scenic view of Luuq town in southwestern Gedo region, Somalia. The town has recently been the scene of renewed clashes between clan militias following the collapse of a peace agreement.
Mogadishu (HOL) — Violence erupted last night in Luuq, Gedo region, as two clan militias clashed following the collapse of a recently brokered peace agreement, reigniting tensions and spreading fear among residents.
The fighting, which began in the early evening, saw both groups using heavy weaponry, causing fear and disruption in residential areas.
This latest bout of violence stems from a killing that occurred just days ago, reigniting longstanding hostilities between the two clans. The peace deal, facilitated by officials from Somalia’s Federal Government and the Jubbaland administration, was intended to resolve these tensions. However, the recent killing of a clan member led to a rapid collapse of the agreement, sparking the renewed conflict.
Eyewitnesses in Luuq report that both militias remain in standoff positions this morning, with the potential for further clashes looming as both sides prepare for renewed fighting.
While casualty figures are yet to be confirmed, the escalation has prompted concern from local authorities, who are calling for immediate intervention to prevent the violence from spiralling out of control.
More updates will follow as the situation develops.