Somalia: SSC-Khaatumo and Somaliland Plan Prisoner Exchange, Raising Hopes for Peace Talks

LAS ANOD, Somalia — Reports indicate that the SSC-Khaatumo State and Somaliland are negotiating a limited prisoner exchange, a move many view as a potential first step toward formal peace negotiations.

Although the exact number of prisoners to be exchanged has not been disclosed, the development is seen as a sign of preliminary mutual understanding between the two sides.

Details on the timing and location of the exchange are still awaited, as both communities closely monitor the situation. The conflict between Somaliland and SSC-Khaatumo over LasAnod and its surrounding areas has led to significant casualties, with both sides capturing prisoners, including military officers and soldiers.

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on a visit to Las Anod, where he inaugurated several government projects aimed at stabilizing the Sool region. In December 2023, SSC-Khaatumo leader Abdikadir Jama Ali (Firdhiye) outlined conditions for the release of Somaliland troops captured during the conflict in the Sool region.

Firdhiye emphasized that any prisoner release would be contingent upon a comprehensive peace agreement and a cessation of provocative actions by Somaliland in areas under SSC-Khaatumo control, namely the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn regions.

SSC-Khaatumo officials claim to hold over 229 Somaliland soldiers in two prisons located in Las Anod since the northern city was ousted from Somaliland in early 2023 following a deadly war.

— Reporting by Garowe Online