Deadly Clashes Reported in Ethiopia’s Somali Region, Civilians Feared Killed

GOOBJOOG NEWS|ETHIOPIA: Deadly clashes have reportedly erupted in Ethiopia’s Somali Region, with several civilians feared killed and homes and businesses allegedly set ablaze, according to local reports that remain unverified.
The violence was reported at around 11:30 a.m. on Thursday in several settlements around Moyale, including Chamuk, Kebele 01 and Shawabarre, where residents were said to be facing mounting security threats.
Chamuk, described in local accounts as a commercial centre predominantly inhabited by Borana Oromo communities, was among the areas reportedly affected. Homes, businesses and other civilian property were allegedly burned or looted.
Local sources accused Somali regional special forces of carrying out the attacks alongside Al-Shabaab militants. The allegations could not be independently verified, and no immediate official response was available.
There were also claims that federal security forces had withdrawn from the affected area without adequately protecting civilians.
The number of people killed or wounded remains unclear, while reports of continued fighting have heightened fears for residents caught up in the violence.
The reported attacks have renewed concerns over civilian protection in the border areas, where insecurity could disrupt livelihoods and force residents to flee their homes.
Calls have been made for Ethiopian authorities to intervene, provide humanitarian assistance and investigate the reported killings and destruction of property.
The circumstances surrounding the violence, the scale of the casualties and responsibility for the alleged attacks remain unconfirmed.