Local contacts based in the Somali border town of Masule reveal an intense firefight erupted tonight following a brazen cross border raid. Eyewitnesses informed the Halgan Media service desk that armed gunmen launched an assault on the town, after crossing over from the neighboring Afar regional state.
A firefight ensued between the local Somali pastoralists and the invading Afar Militants, which led to a short yet fierce exchange of gunfire. The Somalis where able to repel the cross border raid with small arms fire forcing the militants to retreat.
Local residents have confirmed one Somali was wounded in the exchange of gunfire, whose been identified as Cabdallah Saciid Waberi. The victim suffered gunshot wounds to the lower torso and is currently being treated at a makeshift clinic in the nearby town of Cadayti.
Since the start of 2019, Afar regional state security forces and allied militias have launched relentless cross border raids targeting Somali pastoralists in Sitti province. Hundreds have been killed, with thousands more displaced.
The Halgan Media service desk has reached out to authorities in the Somali capital Jigjiga for comment but are yet to receive a response.
We will keep you updated with the latest developments from the region.
Halgan Media Editorial Staff
Contact us : info@halganmedia.net
