Puntland VP visits Laas’anod as Somaliland vows to ‘defend territory’

GOOBJOOG NEWS|SOOL: Puntland Vice President Ahmed Karash visited the restive town of Laas’anod and neighbouring areas Tuesday following the expulsion of Somaliland forces from the conflict-ridden town as Somaliland vows revenge.

Karash told journalists that the visit was aimed at assessing the situation in the town which has been the scene of deadly since the beginning of this year.

The visit follows a defiant stance by Somaliland after the SCC-Khatumo fighters who are reportedly backed by Puntland took control of the strategic Gojacade area which has been hosting Somaliland forces.

Speaking during a joint press conference with opposition leaders on Saturday, Somaliland President Muse Bihi assured the people of Somaliland of the government’s resolve to ‘protect its territories.”

In a separate presser, opposition leaders, Abdirahman Irro (Waddani) and UCID leader Faisal Warabe called for solidarity noting they were ready to back government efforts to protect their territory.

Meanwhile, the international community has called for ‘an immediate and unconditional ceasefire’ and also called for an end to the mobilisation of fighters and to the provision of supplies and armaments.