Escalating Violence Against Ethiopians in Puntland Amid ISIS Allegations
In Puntland, Somalia, three Ethiopians were killed amidst accusations of ISIS links, leading to increased violence and detention of Ethiopian nationals. Anti-Ethiopian sentiments appear amplified by a recent maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, resulting in widespread arrests and hostility against refugees. Local and international responses are critical to safeguard the rights and safety of Ethiopian communities.
In Somalia’s Puntland region, three Ethiopian nationals were killed over a span of two days amid accusations of connections to the terrorist group ISIS. Reports indicate that several Ethiopians have been detained as violence against Ethiopian refugees and migrants escalates, affecting cities such as Garowe, Bosaso, and Kalkaw. Eyewitnesses allege that the violence began on January 26, 2025, when government security forces killed an Ethiopian citizen, followed by two additional deaths in Bosaso attributed to public violence.
Residents in Puntland express concerns regarding the apparent targeting of Ethiopians, citing that while there may be individuals involved with ISIS, collective punishment of an entire community is unjustified. Thousands of Ethiopians have reportedly been detained, with over 500 arrests occurring in Garowe alone, where the majority are civilians without ties to militancy. The crackdown may stem from heightened anti-Ethiopian sentiments following Ethiopia’s maritime agreement with Somaliland, a decision opposed by Somalia.
Furthermore, allegations suggest that security forces, including police, have instigated violence against Ethiopians. Community leaders report receiving threats to vacate and abandon their property, reflecting an underlying resentment despite claims of terrorism affiliations. Ethiopian refugees have historically faced challenges in the region, including previous orders for their removal by Puntland authorities due to labor market concerns. Reports of heightened threats against Ethiopians intensified following Ethiopia’s memorandum with Somaliland, prompting engagement from organizations like UNHCR for refugee protection initiatives.
The violence against Ethiopians in Puntland, Somalia, has escalated amidst allegations of links to ISIS. These incidents reportedly intensified following the signing of a maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, leading to increased anti-Ethiopian sentiment among local communities. The situation has raised significant concerns about the safety of Ethiopian refugees and has attracted the attention of international organizations tasked with safeguarding forced migrants.
The recent spate of violence against Ethiopian nationals in Puntland underscores a troubling trend of collective punishment based on alleged affiliations with terrorist groups. With numerous detentions and growing hostilities against Ethiopian refugees, the potential for further escalation is evident. Addressing the root causes of this violence and ensuring the safety of affected communities remain paramount, necessitating coordinated efforts from local and international bodies.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
