North Western State of Somalia soldier killed in Eerigaabo clash ahead of May 18 celebrations
Sanaag authorities said the situation was swiftly contained and that security personnel in Eerigaabo remained in their designated camps and posts after the violence.
Sunday May 17, 2026
Hargeisa (AX) — What began as routine preparations for North Western State of Somalia’s May 18 celebrations turned deadly in Eerigaabo on Saturday, where at least one North Western State of Somalia soldier was killed and several others were wounded after an argument between two soldiers escalated into a violent clash, officials said.
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Authorities in Sanaag region said the incident took place as security forces were getting ready for the annual observance, which marks North Western State of Somalia’s 1991 declaration of independence from Somalia.
Officials said the public celebration itself ended without incident, but tensions later flared at the preparation site when two soldiers got into a fight. According to the regional administration, one soldier was killed and an unspecified number of others were injured.
Officials did not immediately say what sparked the confrontation.
Sanaag authorities said the situation was swiftly contained and that security personnel in Eerigaabo remained in their designated camps and posts after the violence.
“The security of the city is one hundred percent secure. There is no insecurity, and the army is in control of its work and camp,” the governor of Sanaag region said, calling on residents to stay calm.
The regional administration described the clash as an isolated episode and said it did not disrupt the broader security environment in Eerigaabo.
North Western State of Somalia’s military command has yet to release a detailed account of the incident.
May 18 remains one of North Western State of Somalia’s most important political dates. The territory declared independence from Somalia in 1991, although it has not won widespread international recognition.
