SOOL — At least 20 people have been killed and many others injured following renewed clan clashes today in the Adhicadeeye area of the Sool region, according to local reports.
The violence marks a fresh escalation of earlier tensions linked to a recent clan confrontation in the nearby area of Madax-laguxoor. Witnesses and local sources say the fighting involved heavy weaponry, including “technicals” (armed pickup trucks commonly used in armed conflicts in Somalia).
According to information obtained by local reporters, the latest clashes were triggered by a killing earlier this morning along the road connecting Yagoori and Laascaanod town. The incident reportedly led to the rapid mobilization of armed groups from different directions, which escalated into heavy fighting in Adhicadeeye by midday.
The area is said to host communities from rival clan groups, and tensions had already been rising in recent days following previous confrontations.
Sources familiar with the situation said fighters from opposing sides exchanged heavy fire, with civilians reportedly among those killed or injured.
While initial reports confirm at least 20 deaths, unverified accounts suggest the toll may have risen to around 24, including one woman. Several others are reported to have sustained injuries, though exact figures remain unclear due to limited access to the affected areas.
The fighting reportedly continued for several hours before easing in the evening as darkness separated the opposing sides. However, residents say the security situation remains fragile, with fears of renewed clashes if tensions are not addressed.
No independent verification of the casualty figures has yet been possible due to restricted movement and ongoing insecurity in the area.
As of tonight, local authorities and traditional elders have not issued formal statements regarding the latest escalation. Community members in the region have called for urgent intervention to prevent further loss of life and de-escalate tensions between the rival groups.
The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
