Somalia: Armed Violence in Ceerigaabo town, Sanaag region Flash Update No.1 (as of 18 December 2024)

This Flash Update is prepared by OCHA, in coordination with humanitarian partners and authorities in Somalia and covers the situation in Ceerigaabo as of 18 December 2024. The next update will be issued as soon as additional information is available.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Nearly 43,000 people have been displaced by ongoing clan violence in Ceerigaabo town, Sanaag region and are facing a critical need for food, shelter, water and sanitation and basic
health services.

• The security situation remains volatile despite ongoing peace negotiations, with uneasy calm reported in the town since 16 December.

• Partners started response planning by mapping areas of displacement but are hindered by insecurity. Assessment teams have been dispatched to some of the areas that are hosting displaced families.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

Violent clashes were reported in Ceerigaabo on 14 December, escalating for a second consecutive day on 15 December, particularly in the town's southern areas and nearby locations. Casualties were reported, including children injured by mortar fire. As a result, around 43,000 people have fled, many seeking refuge in surrounding areas, including safer locations in Ceerigaabo district. Recent reports indicate that people have moved to various locations within Sanaag region including Ceel Afweyn and Laasqoray while unspecified number of people have reached parts of Bossaso, Laas Caanood, Xuddun and Burco districts.

Tensions remain high despite attempts by clan elders to mediate, as violent clashes were again reported on 17 December in southern Ceerigaabo town. Humanitarian partners are planning assessments to address the needs generated by the escalating crisis, while local leaders have repeatedly urged civilians to stay, despite the prevailing situation. Since 16 December, uneasy calm has returned to Ceerigaabo town following the withdrawal of one of the warring parties from the town. Humanitarian operations, business activities, and schooling in Ceerigaabo have been entirely disrupted because of the fighting.