Attacks on Ethiopians Intensify in Puntland Somalia

Attacks have intensified on Ethiopians living in Puntland regional state of Somalia. The attacks began on January 26, 2025.

The ongoing attacks are linked to suspicions about Ethiopians being involved in supporting ISIS extremists. Since earlier this month, Puntland regional forces have been conducting an operation in Al Miskat mountain range to eradicate ISIS fighters from the area.

Over two weeks ago, Puntland forces captured an Islamic State fighter who is originally from Ethiopia. The attacks on Ethiopians are being reported in Garowe, Galkacayo and Bosaso cities of Puntland.

According to some Ethiopian residents of Puntland, regional forces of Puntland, in the operation against ISIS, killed one Ethiopian national last week. After that 2 Ethiopians were beaten to death by mobs in Bosaso. Puntland police rejected reports of deaths of Ethiopians in mob violence. In a statement, Puntland police said no Ethiopian has been killed, only a minor violent incident happened. According to police, violent videos not involving Ethiopians are being propagated in social media. The police warned people against spreading false information.

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