Somalia: Somaliland forces take control of Saah Dheer

LASANOD, Somalia August 28, 2014 (Garowe Online)-Somaliland forces seized Sool region town of Saah Dheer after heavy fighting erupted in the early hours of Thursday morning according to officials, Garowe Online reports.

Somaliland armed forces Commander-in-Chief Gen. Ismael Shaqale confirmed to BBC Somali service that they took over Saah Dheer in clean-up operation.

The battle between local forces of Khaatumo and Somaliland forces broke out after separatist administration launched pre-planned raid on Saah Dheer, 70km south west of Lasanod. The casualties on both sides remain unknown.

The attack on the border town has coincided with the inauguration ceremony of the newly elected president of Khaatumo mini-state Ali Khalif Galaydh.

On Wednesday, three planes carrying delegations from Mogadishu and Nairobi landed at airstrip in Buhotle. In attendance at the inauguration of Galaydh were Mogadishu clan elders, politicians and Federal MPs.

Khaatumo seeks substantial autonomy without Somaliland and Puntland influence. It has long called for the removal of Somaliland troops from Lasanod.

Somaliland militarily seized Sool regional capital of Lasanod in October 2007. Ever since, locals have been battling separatist administration’s army via guerilla warfare.

Puntland and Somaliland have fought sporadic battles since 2002 over the control of territories mainly in Sool region. 

GAROWEONLINE