Human Rights Commission Condemns Deadly Attacks on Civilians in Ari-Caddeeye and Jalalaqsi

MOGADISHU – The National Independent Human Rights Commission of Somalia has strongly condemned the killing of at least 21 civilians, including children and elderly people, in the Ari-Caddeeye area of the Sool region, as well as the deaths of 10 people and the burning of homes in the Jalalaqsi district of Hiiraan, calling for urgent investigations into both incidents.

In a press statement issued on June 27, 2026, the commission expressed deep concern over what it described as indiscriminate attacks on civilians, the destruction of property, displacement of families, and the severe humanitarian impact resulting from the violence.

“The Commission strongly condemns the heinous act of killing civilians in Ari-Caddeeye, Sool region, where at least 21 civilians, including children and elderly people, were indiscriminately killed,” the statement read. “The Commission also condemns the violence in Jalalaqsi district, Hiiraan region, where at least 10 people died and homes belonging to civilians were burned.”

Ari-Caddeeye Massacre

The commission’s statement follows reports of a massacre in Ari-Caddeeye, where armed militias killed at least 21 civilians in what witnesses described as a targeted attack. The area, located in the disputed Sool region, has been a flashpoint for clashes between various armed groups vying for control.

The Sool region has experienced recurring clashes between Puntland forces and local militias, with tensions often erupting into armed confrontations that have displaced thousands of residents.

Jalalaqsi Violence

In Jalalaqsi, fierce fighting between rival clan militias has forced most residents to flee, leaving the town largely deserted. The clashes, which entered their third day on June 20, saw militias from both sides setting fire to homes belonging to displaced civilians. At least 10 people were killed and dozens injured, with heavy weapons fire reported throughout the town.

Previous clan clashes in Jalalaqsi had been triggered by the detention of community elders, with fighting breaking out between district commissioner loyalists and armed militias. That incident resulted in two deaths before elders intervened to mediate.

Commission Calls for Independent Investigations

The commission urged all parties to immediately cease hostilities, exercise restraint, protect civilians and their property, and comply with their obligations under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia, international human rights law, and international humanitarian law.

It called on the competent authorities of the Northeastern State administration to conduct prompt, independent, impartial and thorough investigations to ensure accountability and address the humanitarian needs of families affected by these incidents.

The National Independent Human Rights Commission was established in October 2025 after the federal parliament overwhelmingly approved its creation, marking a turning point in Somalia’s governance and accountability reforms after more than three decades of external monitoring.

Appeal for Peace and Reconciliation

The commission also called on traditional elders, religious scholars, women, youth and community leaders to intensify efforts to de-escalate tensions, strengthen dialogue and reconciliation, and achieve a lasting peaceful solution.

Acting Speaker of the House of the People, Sadiya Yasin Haji Samatar, has also urged an immediate halt to the renewed clan fighting in Hiiraan, warning that continued violence could undermine peace, social cohesion and the welfare of local communities.

The commission expressed its deepest condolences to the families and relatives of those killed in the violence and wished a speedy recovery to all the injured. It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, protecting human rights and preventing conflicts in Somalia.

Humanitarian Concerns

Hiiraan region has been grappling with a dire humanitarian crisis, with over 60,000 people displaced due to intensified conflict, inter-clan disputes, and retaliatory violence. Humanitarian agencies had launched emergency food distribution programs in the region, but the latest clashes threaten to undo the limited progress made in restoring stability.

The commission’s statement comes amid growing international concern over civilian protection in Somalia’s conflict zones, where armed groups and clan militias have continued to target civilians with impunity.