On Tuesday, 25 prisoners captured by SSC-Khaatumo forces during recent clashes with Somaliland arrived at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport. Among them is a woman, marking a notable development in the ongoing conflict over the Sool region.
The SSC-Khaatumo administration handed the prisoners over to the Federal Government of Somalia hinting at the possibility of setting the ball rolling in efforts aimed at ending hostilities with Somaliland.
This transfer follows Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s recent visit to Las Anod, the epicenter of the conflict. While the federal government has not officially confirmed a prisoner exchange deal, the timing of the release suggests possible behind-the-scenes negotiations.
Previously, SSC-Khaatumo had set conditions for releasing prisoners, including a cessation of hostilities and a comprehensive peace agreement with Somaliland. The group has also released prisoners on humanitarian grounds, such as injured detainees and individuals from the Awdal region.
Somaliland has expressed willingness to engage in unconditional talks regarding prisoners of war, though progress has been limited. The arrival of these prisoners in Mogadishu may indicate a shift towards reconciliation and a potential easing of tensions in the region.